Sousa: Music for Wind Band, Vol. 17

Immerse yourself in the vibrant and patriotic sounds of John Philip Sousa's "Music for Wind Band, Vol. 17," performed by the Guildhall Wind Band under the direction of Keith Brion. Released on December 1, 2017, by Naxos, this album is a celebration of Sousa's mastery of wind band compositions, offering a rich and diverse collection of marches and character pieces that showcase the brilliance of this American composer.

The album opens with selections from "The American Maid," a three-movement suite that highlights Sousa's ability to blend storytelling with music. The suite is followed by "The Smugglers: Quintette," a lively and engaging piece that demonstrates Sousa's knack for creating memorable melodies. The centerpiece of the album is "The Salute of the Nations to the Columbian Exposition," a grand and majestic work that pays tribute to the nations that participated in the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago.

The second half of the album is dedicated to Sousa's "March of the Pan Americans," a series of marches that honor the countries of the Americas. Each march is distinct and captures the unique character of its respective nation, from the bold and brassy "U.S.A." to the lively and rhythmic "Brazil." The album concludes with "Humoresque 'A Mingling of the Wets and the Drys'," a humorous and whimsical piece that showcases Sousa's playful side.

With a duration of 56 minutes, this album is a perfect introduction to the world of John Philip Sousa and his contributions to wind band music. Whether you're a seasoned fan or a newcomer to his work, "Music for Wind Band, Vol. 17" is sure to delight and entertain. So sit back, relax, and let the music of John Philip Sousa transport you to a bygone era of American music.