“The signature contribution of this group [is] a technical ease with extravagant gestures, intense production of sound, and the daring expressive liberties that come only after musicians have developed a sixth sense of ensemble-bonding. Imani’s got it all.”
- Philadelphia Inquirer
A celebration of composers of color
This trailblazing, Grammy-nominated wind quintet celebrates Black History Month with a playlist that includes traditional chamber music repertoire and newly commissioned works that reflect important historical events, as well as the times of today. Composers include Paquito D’Rivera, Wayne Shorter, Andy Akiho, Billy Taylor, and more.
More about Imani Winds
Celebrating over a quarter century of music making, the twice Grammy-nominated Imani Winds has led both a revolution and evolution of the wind quintet through their dynamic playing, adventurous programming, imaginative collaborations and outreach endeavors that have inspired audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
The ensemble’s playlist embraces traditional chamber music repertoire, and newly commissioned works from voices that reflect historical events and the times in which we currently live.
Recent projects include a Jessie Montgomery composition inspired by her great-grandfather’s migration from the American south to the north, socially conscious music by Andy Akiho, reflecting on mass incarceration, and a work by Carlos Simon celebrating iconic figures of the African American community. These works and more have been commissioned as a part of the Legacy Commissioning Project.
Members include Brandon Patrick George, flute; Mekhi Gladden, oboe (who will substitute for regular member Toyin Spellman-Diaz); Mark Dover, clarinet; Monica Ellis, bassoon; and Kevin Newton, French horn.
PROGRAM
I Said What I Said*.............................................................Damien Geter
Giants†...................................................................................Carlos Simon
i. Bessie Smith
ii. Cornel West
iii. Herbie Hancock
Selections from Aires Tropicales.................................Paquito D’Rivera
INTERMISSION
Rubispheres No. 1...............................................................Valerie Coleman
(For flute, clarinet & bassoon)
i. DROM
ii. Serenade
iii. Revival
BeLoud, BeLoved, BeLonging ‡.................................Andy Akiho (b. 1979)
I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free.........Billy Taylor (1921-2010)
arr. Mark Dover
*Written for Imani Winds. Commissioned by Anima Mundi Productions, Chamber Music Northwest and the Oregon Bach Festival. Premiered April 28, 2022 in Portland, OR.
†Commissioned by Imani Winds and Shriver Concert Hall Series. Premiered May 14, 2023.
‡ Commissioned by Imani Winds with support from the Concert Artists Guild Richard Weinert Award, the Imani Winds Foundation and the Kaufman Music Center. Premiered October 26, 2022 in New York City