Wednesday, March 4th - Saskatoon Community Bands Present "Wayfarer's Journey"
7:30pm at the Broadway Theatre
Featuring Wind Ensemble & Jazz Band

Wind Ensemble – Nick Fanner, Conductor

1. Overture for Winds (1959) - Charles Carter

Overture for Winds was given its title by the publishers. This three-part overture has remained Carter’s most popular composition for band. The opening section has a theme which is robust and rhythmic in character. The second theme, slightly slower and expressive, is a free form based on the original idea. The last section is a repetition of the opening thematic ideas, building to the climax.

2. Autumn Rose (2017) - Julie Giroux

Autumn Rose was composed for Dr. Daniel P. Bolin in memory of his mother, Genell Bolin.  

"She was born in the little town of Richardsville, KY. Mom was proud of the fact that she completed grade 10. In 1935, this would have been an unusual feat for a female in a rural farm town. Education was always important to her, and she saw to it that this was instilled in her two boys. My brother became an engineer (rocket scientist for NASA), and I earned my doctorate and spent time as a high school band director, school administrator and chair of the School of Music at Butler University. She was always involved in seeing to it that we had what we needed and did what it took to allow us to participate in school activities. She was involved in PTA and with the All-City Orchestra Parents Organization. She volunteered for the Heart Fund and was even invited to the Governor’s Home to be honored for her work. Yes, she was quite a lady. Many miss her. I still think of her every day." Program notes by Dr. Daniel P Bolin.

3. Wilderness (2021) - Cait Nishimura

This piece was commissioned by the Midwest Band & Orchestra Clinic in celebration of their 75th anniversary. Wilderness celebrates and honours Earth’s remaining wild spaces and the people who fight to protect them. Through this music, I explore the range of emotions I experience as an environmentalist, and I express my gratitude for all that nature has given me. This piece is a call-to-action for all of us to do our part in spreading awareness about climate change, to reflect on our relationship with nature, and to deepen our respect for the stewards of this land. Five dollars from each purchase of this piece is donated to the Nature Conservancy of Canada. Thank you for helping us support this important work. For more information, visit https://natureconservancy.ca.  Program notes by the composer.

4. Wayfaring Stranger (2004) - Steve Rouse

Wayfaring Stranger was born in the southern Appalachian Mountains about the time of the American Revolution. At that time, the immigrants of the region were mostly English, Scottish, Irish, and Welsh, but there was also a mysterious group known as Melungeons. Sometimes called the Black Dutch, the Melungeons are often said to be of Portuguese descent, though their precise lineage is still a mystery. Wayfaring Stranger is typical of many of the spiritual songs of the time, expressing the pain and hardship of daily life, while dreaming and hoping for a bright and beautiful life after death. As many of these settlers moved westward in the expansion during the years following the American Revolution, Wayfaring Stranger, one of the favorite songs of the day, traveled with them, eventually becoming widely known all-across North America. More recently, in the middle of the twentieth century, Wayfaring Stranger was revived by the American folk music movement and by musical researchers and performers such as Pete Seeger and Burl Ives.

5. Diamond Tide (2015) - Viet Cuon

A 2010 article published in Nature Physics details an experiment in which scientists were able to successfully melt a diamond and, for the first time, measure the temperature and pressure necessary to do so. When diamonds are heated to very high temperatures, they don’t melt; they simply turn into graphite. The extreme temperature and pressure used in this experiment are found on Neptune and Uranus, and scientists therefore believe that seas of liquid diamond are possible on these two planets. Oceans of diamond may also account for these planets’ peculiar magnetic and geographic poles, which do not line up like they do here on earth. Lastly, as the scientists were melting the diamonds, they saw floating shards of solid diamond forming in the pools, just like icebergs in our oceans. Diamond Tide, utilizes the “melting” sounds of metallic water percussion and trombone glissandi throughout. The work is in two movements, which may be performed separately.

6. The Genius of Ray Charles (2004) - Ray Charles / arr. Michael Brown

Ray Charles's unique style and passion for music is forever etched in cultural fabric. Here is a masterful blend of his unforgettable hits Georgia On My Mind; I Can't Stop Loving You; What'd I Say; Hallelujah; I Love Her So and Let the Good Times Roll.

Intermission.

Jazz Band  - Doug Gilmour, Conductor

1. Belly Roll

Quincy Jones, arranged by Sammy Nestico “Belly Roll” comes from Quincy Jones’ early big-band writing, full of youthful energy and blues-infused swagger. Nestico’s arrangement highlights the playful rhythmic figures, bold brass statements, and tight ensemble hits that define the piece. With its driving swing feel and spirited call-and-response passages, “Belly Roll” captures the exuberance of mid-century big-band jazz and showcases the ensemble’s rhythmic precision and personality.

2. God Bless the Child

Arranged by Sammy Nestico Originally made famous by Billie Holiday and Arthur Herzog Jr., “God Bless the Child” is one of the most enduring ballads in the jazz repertoire. Sammy Nestico’s arrangement brings a warm, orchestral sensibility to the tune, allowing the ensemble to explore expressive phrasing and rich harmonic colors. The chart honors the emotional depth of Holiday’s original while giving the band space to shape the melody with tenderness and nuance.

3. The Creole Love Call

Duke Ellington, arranged by Mark Taylor First recorded in 1927, “The Creole Love Call” is one of Duke Ellington’s early masterpieces — a haunting, atmospheric work that showcased his emerging “jungle style.” The piece is famous for its wordless vocal lines, originally sung by Adelaide Hall, weaving sensuously through muted horns and lush harmonies. Mark Taylor’s arrangement preserves the mysterious elegance of the original while giving modern ensembles a chance to explore Ellington’s signature tone colors, subtle textures, and evocative mood.

4. Josie

Words & Music by Walter Becker & Donald Fagen (Steely Dan) Originally released on Steely Dan’s landmark 1977 album Aja, “Josie” blends rock, jazz harmony, and funk-infused grooves — a hallmark of Becker and Fagen’s sophisticated songwriting. The tune features tight rhythmic interplay, sleek horn lines, and harmonies that nod to jazz traditions while remaining unmistakably Steely Dan. In a jazz-ensemble setting, “Josie” becomes a stylish, groove-driven chart that bridges genres and brings a modern edge to the program.

5. Backatown

Words & Music by Troy Andrews (Trombone Shorty) “Backatown” is a high-energy anthem by New Orleans phenom Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews. Blending funk, jazz, and second-line rhythms, the tune captures the pulse of Andrews’ hometown — specifically the Tremé neighborhood, affectionately nicknamed “Backatown.” Its driving groove, punchy horn lines, and infectious swagger reflect the modern New Orleans sound: rooted in tradition yet boldly contemporary. Expect rhythmic fire, brass-band attitude, and a celebration of the city’s unmistakable musical spirit.

6. Hay Burner

Sammy Nestico A staple of the Count Basie Orchestra library, “Hay Burner” is classic Sammy Nestico: smooth, swinging, and impeccably crafted. Written in 1968, the chart exemplifies Nestico’s gift for clean lines, warm harmonies, and irresistible swing feel. Its relaxed groove and memorable melody make it a favorite for both players and audiences. The piece builds with Basie-style precision — understated at first, then gradually opening into full-band brilliance.