THIBODAUX, La. — The upcoming Nicholls Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble concert will feature two world premiere pieces from Louisiana artists.
The concert, “Music in the Age of Nicholls,” will be at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 18 in the Mary and Al Danos Theater. It is free and open to the public.
Nicholls graduate Dr. Ben Robichaux composed “Surging Home, a piece commissioned by the Nicholls State University Wind Ensemble. Other bands commissioning the piece are Clemson University, Syracuse University, the University of California, HL Bourgeois High School, and Thibodaux High School. As a recipient of a James E. Croft Grant for Young and Emerging Wind Band Composers, his wind ensemble works have been performed nationally.
“Surging Home is about abandoning a musical journey that takes me away from Louisiana and embracing a musical life that centralizes my family and my home,” Dr. Robichaux said. “By doing so, I hope to serve my community through music, and it is only fitting that the work is premiered by the Nicholls Wind Ensemble in my hometown.”
The second premiere is from Dr. Brett William Dietz, LSU associate professor of percussion. The piece, “Concerto for Marimba and Wind Orchestra,” dedicated to Nicholls instructor of music, Dr. Gustavo Miranda. Miranda will perform the three-movement work as the soloist. Dietz’s music has been performed around the world. His composition, “Pandora’s Box,” was performed at Carnegie Hall by the National Wind Ensemble.
Both premieres will be performed by the Nicholls Wind Ensemble, directed by Dr. Jason Ladd, interim music department head. The Wind Ensemble will also perform compositions including “Fanfare for Freedom” and “Rhythm Stand.”
The Nicholls Symphonic Band will perform “Washington Post,” “Perthshire Majesty” and “In All Its Glory.” Professor Dr. Gabriel Arnold is the director of the Symphonic Band.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Feb. 12, 2020
MEDIA CONTACT: Jacob Batte, Media Relations and Publications Coordinator, 985.448.4141 or jacob.batte@nicholls.edu
