University Wind Ensemble performs in NOLA

On March 11, 2018, the University Wind Ensemble presented a special concert as part of the New Orleans Tricentennial Symposium.  The performance took place at 1:00 p.m. at the UNO University Center Ballroom and featured two works by San Antonio composer, James Syler.  CONGO SQUARE and STORYVILLE received their New Orleans premiers.

Dr. William Hochkeppel, Director of Bands, conducted both compositions which combine history, drama, and music in creative and expressionistic fashions.  The pieces incorporate layers of music from different periods and styles, along with modern spatial performance techniques.  Six student soloists were featured, and the composer was on hand to address the audience, including Symposium participants taking part in the three day event.  In addition, author and scholar Freddi Williams Evans (Congo Square: African Roots in New Orleans, published by UL-Lafayette Press) spoke.  Her book served as an important source and inspiration for Syler’s composition, which was premiered at Angelle Auditorium in 2015.