Since last year’s showcase with composer Gwenyth Walker was such a success, The University of Tampa wanted to bring the music department’s event back again. When the mission to bring a composer to the university for a second year was presented to the music faculty, Dr. David Isele suggested asking his former composition professor, Samuel Adler.
Fortunately for Isele, Adler was in Florida because the Florida Orchestra was performing some of his works, and Adler was happy to accept the university’s invitation to be our second guest composer. He agreed to come and work with UT’s various ensembles just like last year’s guest composer had done.
Adler will arrive several days before the performances to give his insight and meet the ensembles. According to Isele, “Adler is a well known teacher of composition,” and is widely respected for his talent. Adler has over 400 published works and has composed five operas, six symphonies, 12 concerti, eight string quartets, four oratorios that have been performed all over the world.
Dr.Jeffery Traster, chair of the music department and director of bands, said, “Adler’s music is very contemporary.” Adler has been awarded many prizes, one of which he received while serving in the military between 1950-1952. He founded and conducted the seventh Army Symphony Orchestra and received the Army’s Medal of Honor. Adler also won the MTNA award for composer of the year 1988-1989.
He was also elected to the Chilean Academy of Fine Arts for his contribution to the world of music as a composer in 1993. Throughout his decades of making beautiful pieces of music, his style has changed. Having a knowledgeable background of music is key to making a successful musical work of art, according to Isele.
UT will be presenting a two night concert in honor of Adler. The performances will be pieces Adler composed.
Of the ensembles on campus, The Women’s Glee Club, Chorale, The Orchestra, Wind Ensemble and several professors will be performing in this two night event. On Nov. 12, the music department faculty will be performing some of Adler’s more complex solos and chamber music. Then the student’s ensembles will take the stage.
The various organizations have all chosen different genres of Adler’s works, new and old. Adler helped choose some of the pieces the students will be performing.
The Wind Ensemble will perform a piece called American Airs and Dances which has four movements. The Orchestra will perform A Bridge to Understanding; the Women’s Glee Club will be singing Praise the Lord and Come Join in Our Dance, and the Chorale will be singing Sholom and Judah’s Song.
The two night concert is free to all and will be held in Fletcher Lounge at 7:30 p.m. both nights. Don’t miss out on this once in a lifetime free concert!