Review: Outstanding performance by the Symphonic Winds

The UTRGV Symphonic Winds performance was captivating throughout its concert Nov. 5 at the UTRGV Performing Arts Complex on the Edinburg campus.

Conducted by UTRGV Director of Bands Jerianne Larson, they played amazing pieces throughout the performance, including “Canzona” by Peter Mennin, “Trauermusik” by Richard Wagner, Steampunk Suite by Erika Svanoe, “Lux Aeterna” by Ryan Fillinger and A Moorside Suite by Gustav Holst.

Master’s Conducting Associate Bobby Salazar directed “Trauermusik,” and did so splendidly. It was noticeable he was highly passionate and content being there.

Larson conducted her musicians intensely and beautifully. Their chemistry radiated off the stage and onto the audience. Their hours of practice and dedication paid off as everything ran smoothly and thoroughly.

Steampunk Suite, containing “Charlie and the Mechanical Marching Man,” “The Strange Case of Doctor Curie & Madam Hyde” and “Barnum and Tesla’s Tandem Bicycle,” stood out the most. It was full of suspenseful and whimsical tones, which really incorporated the sounds of 19th century steam-powered machinery. 

The instruments intertwined with one another, creating wonderful, harmonious melodies that boomed throughout the auditorium. There should have been more people at the concert as it was worth attending. The audience was greatly appreciative of what it was hearing. They cheered after each piece and became louder as the concert came to a conclusion.

Larson was the right person to conduct these pieces as she was able to encapsulate what they represent and bring a sense of excitement. The concert created a comforting atmosphere while keeping the audience on the edge of their seat about what was to come next, which created a magical experience.