I was recently at Michigan State for the premiere of "Through Wind and Whispers". I had a great time talking with the composition studio class earlier in the day and felt honored to have a piece on the Symphony Band concert in the evening. The piece was on the first half of the concert along with great pieces by Aaron Perrine, Joel Puckett, and Joseph Spaniola. The second half was a bit lighter with Ewazen's "Celtic Hymns and Dances" and two pieces by Grainger. There was a great surprise as Professor Madden's sister sang "Oh, Danny Boy" before Grainger's "Irish Tune from County Derry". How refreshing to hear a folk singer! I thought that was a great idea to introduce the piece. And I cannot help but smile and be moved whenever I hear Percy Grainger's band works. It was a great concert and I hope to work with John Madden and the Symphony Band again.

Listen to the piece here: