Imani Winds is a woodwind quintet (flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon and French horn) featuring outstanding musicians of African American and Latin heritage setting high standards in classical music. The mission of the ensemble is to present music that is culturally diverse in a manner that reflects the experience of being musicians of color. For the past four years, the ensemble has concertized throughout New England and beyond, enlightening audiences with their soulful and spirited chamber music style.
Highlights of the 2000-2001 season include performances by invitation of: the Ravinia Festival and the Chicago Symphony OrchestraÆs MusicianÆs Residency Program; the South Shore Music Festival in Connecticut; the Princeton University New Music Series; the New Jersey City University Town & Gown Concert Series; and the Taste of D.C. food and music festival in Washington, D.C., where classical music had never before been heard. Imani also recently returned from a residency at the Music at Maple Mount Festival in Kentucky. In addition, Imani has toured internationally and recorded with saxophonist Steve Coleman, performed with pop recording artist Morley and opened for Cassandra Wilson and Wynton Marsalis at a benefit for "Vision Warrior" Scott Anthony Robinson. They also participated in the CNN television Stokely Carmichael Memorial Service. Deeply dedicated to promoting new music, Imani Winds has premiered Wind Quintet by Dan Cooper of Princeton University, Four Questions by Anthony Todd, Two Episodes for Wind Quintet by Vijay Iyer, and Partita by David Loeb.
PROGRAM
Lift EvÆry Voice...James Weldon Johnson
arr. Valerie Coleman
Ritmo Indio...Louis Ballard
A Study in Native America Rhythms
1. The Source
2. The Soul
3. The Dance
Milonga sin Palabras...Astor Piazolla
arr. William Scribner
Wapango Paquito...DÆRivera
Quintet No. 1...Jean Francaix
1. Andante Tranquillo; Allegro Assai
2. Presto
3. Tema
Var. 1 LÆistesso Tempo
Var. 2 Andantino con moto
Var. 3 Lento
Var. 4 Vivo
Var. 5 Andante
4. Tempa di Marcia Francese
Traditional Spirturals
Little David Play on Your Harp
Steal Away
EvÆry Time I Feel the Spirit
arr. V. Coleman
MUSICIANS
Valerie Coleman, flutist, is active in solo performances and competitions both domestic and in Europe. Her honors include the Michelle E. Sahm Memorial Award at Tanglewood, laureate of The Kentucky Young Artist competition and The Boston University Concerto Compoetition for two consecutive years. Her solo performances have been played on New YorkÆs Classical Radio Station WQXR. She is on the faculty of The Julliard School Music Advancement Program. B.M. Boston University; M.M Mannes College of Music.
Toyin Spellman, oboist, is a native of Washington, D.C. Ms. Spellman was Principal oboist of the Chicago Civic Orchestra and has performed with the New York Philharmonic, the Chicago Symphony, Orchestra of St. LukeÆs and the Milwaukee Symphony. B.M. Oberlin College; M.M. Manhattan School of Music.
Imariam Adam, clarinetist, is the recipient of numerous awards including the Hans Wildau Young Musicians Scholar/Award, solo engagements with the Monterey County Symphony, the Sacramento Symphony, the Stockton Symphony and has given numerous recitals in San FranciscoÆs esteemed Star Classic Recital Hall. B.M. University of the Pacific Conservatory of Music.
Jeff Scott, French hornist, is best known for his excellent work on Broadway for The Lion King, Showboat and On the Town, just to name a few. Mr. Scott also performs music for Alvin Ailey and The Dance Theatre of Harlem. B.M. Manhattan School of Music; M.M. SUNY at Stonybrook.
Monica Ellis is a much sought-after freelance bassoonist. She has toured worldwide with New World and Juilliard Symphonies and Absolute Ensemble, who she has also recorded with. She has attended the Spoleto-Italy Festival, and Tanglewood Music Center. She is on the faculty of JuilliardÆs Music Advancement Program. B.M. Oberlin College; M.M, The Juilliard School; Professional Studies, Manhattan School of Music.
1/29/01: Imani Winds
