Imani Winds: Black and Brown

A CELEBRATION OF COMPOSERS OF COLOR

This trailblazing ensemble offers a playlist that includes traditional chamber music repertoire and newly commissioned works that reflect important historical events, as well as current times. Composers on the program include Paquito D’Rivera, Billy Taylor, Damien Geter, Valerie Coleman, socially conscious music by Andy Akiho reflecting on mass incarceration, and a work by Carlos Simon celebrating iconic figures in the African-American community, including Bessie Smith, Cornel West, and Herbie Hancock.

“The signature contribution of this group [is] a technical ease with extravagant gestures, intense production of sound, and the daring expressive liberties that come only after musicians have developed a sixth sense of ensemble-bonding. Imani’s got it all.”  - Philadelphia Inquirer

More about Imani Winds

Celebrating over a quarter century of music making, the Grammy-nominated Imani Winds has led both a revolution and evolution of the wind quintet through their dynamic playing, adventurous programming, imaginative collaborations and outreach endeavors that have inspired audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

The Grammy® award-winning ensemble’s playlist embraces traditional chamber music repertoire, and newly commissioned works from voices that reflect historical events and the times in which we currently live.

Members include Brandon Patrick George, flute; Mekhi Gladden, oboe (who will substitute for regular member Toyin Spellman-Diaz); Mark Dover, clarinet; Monica Ellis, bassoon; and Kevin Newton, French horn.

Imani Winds Master Class | Saturday, February 24 at 2 pm

Nichols Concert Hall
Free and open to the public  |  More information