Fennell was my instrumental conducting teacher at University of Miami, 1966-68. Clifton Williams was my counterpoint professor at UM, and a friend. When I was a band director, he came out to guest conduct his Variation Overture. Exciting years.
Thank's 'Sarah Williams' for turning me on to this stunning wind band composition by your father Clifton Williams! Filled with pride to see esteemed Japanese Symphony honoring his music.
I came back to add that aside from being just plain beautiful in everyway, Tokyo Kosei is technically flawless. If there were a Mt. Rushmore of american band music, Fennell would be one of the faces on it.
Hearing the Tokyo Kosei Winds play this is so interesting because as a culture the Japanese love American music and especially our band and classical pieces. This group is about as good as it gets. Got to play this in a district or regional band in h.s. and then in college Love the shepherd's crook cornets.
My favorite Clifton Williams work since I first heard it played at Hill Auditorium, on the campus of the Univ. of Michigan in 1966. A great piece, made up with some many different rhythms and moods. I played euphonium & tuba in college. Loved playing works like this. TKWO does an wonderful job, as always........great recording!
Love the cornets - the Eb Clarinet and piccolo next to each other - the Bass Sax and Contra Bass Clarinet - and that EVERYONE was locked into the conductor and into LISTENING to each other for blend and balance - and following the dynamic and tempo markings. I didn't hear a bad note until the very end.
![Clifton Williams - Symphonic Suite [Fennell, TKWO]](/img/logo.svg){kind=logo}
