The CSUN music department and the wind symphony hosted their spring concert on April 8 at the Plaza del Sol Performance Hall. The sound of instruments being tuned and the loud chatter of audience members finding their seats filled the room as the concert was about to begin.
Lights dimmed as the conductor, Lawrence Stoffel, took the stage. The ensemble began the first song of the night, “Emperata Overture.”
Stoffel said the program featured varied pieces that complemented each other. The band had roughly 12 weeks to prepare and learn the music before performing.
The show consisted of seven songs, with a brief intermission after the first four. Each piece reflected a different genre and mood, ranging from light and hopeful to more intense.
During the concert, it was announced that the symphony would premiere “Brighter Days Ahead,” composed by student Jabe Bell. Bell explained that the inspiration behind the song comes from his belief in hope and optimism and how it is a powerful response.
“I just think that hope and optimism are not only necessary, but correct,” Bell said. “I hope it kind of puts a spring in people’s step, even if it’s just for a few minutes, or if they’re humming it on the way home. I just want people to like it and smile.”
Bell was inspired to pursue composing at CSUN after attending a Wind Symphony performance there. Bell added that he did not compose the song with the intention of it being played at the spring concert until Stoffel reached out to him and found “Brighter Days Ahead” to be a piece that fit the program.
“I’m always excited when a student takes an interest in writing for the wind ensemble or a concert band and has the skill and ability to write a composition, and that’s what we have next with a world premiere,” Stoffel said.
Trombone section leader Jose Espinoza said he felt the performance was smooth and that everyone was pretty confident with their parts. Espinoza added that he hopes the audience left in a good mood and with excitement.
Espinoza said he believes music is a universal language that can be found in any setting. He feels it is a way to connect and involve everyone.
“Music is one of those things where you can get involved. Two years ago, when I came here, I didn’t know anybody; now I know everybody,” Espinoza said. “We’re conversing how to improve ourselves, and then two years later, it’s ‘Look what we made. We made a great, fabulous concert.’”
The next CSUN Wind Ensemble concert is scheduled for Saturday, May 2, at The Soraya at 2:30 p.m.
