Final Connoisseurs Series Concert to Feature Acclaimed Imani Winds
Mon, 04/04/2011 - 11:31am | By: Alison Crumpton
One of North America's premier wind quintets will perform on stage in downtown Hattiesburg April 10, as part of The University of Southern Mississippi School of Music's Connoisseurs Series.
The concert is set for 3 p.m. at the Historic Hattiesburg Train Depot.
Since 1997, the Grammy-nominated quintet, Imani Winds, has taken a unique path, carving out a distinct presence in the classical music world. Members include Valerie Coleman, flute; Toyin Spellman-Diaz, oboe; Mariam Adam, clarinet and Monica Ellis, bassoon.
With two member composers (Coleman and Scott) and a deep commitment to commissioning new work, the quintet is enriching the traditional wind quintet repertoire while meaningfully bridging European, American, African and Latin American traditions.
“This is a superb group,” said Dr. Danilo Mezzadri, associate professor of flute at Southern Miss. “They have chosen a brilliant program to play in Hattiesburg and this is a must-go concert to anyone interested in any type of chamber music.”
Imani Winds has been featured on National Public Radio, Sirius XM radio, as well as in major music magazines and newspapers including the New York Times and Wall Street Journal.
An extensive touring schedule has brought them to most of the country's major concert venues including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Kennedy Center, Disney Hall and Kimmel Center.
Imani Winds' commitment to education runs deep. The group participates in residencies throughout the United States, giving master classes to thousands of students every year.
On Monday morning, April 11, Imani Winds will be hosting a clinic for music students at Hattiesburg High School.
The Connoisseurs Series was created to enhance the already rich line-up of guest stars and large ensembles in the Southern Miss School of Music. The diverse series of chamber music is programmed to be as accessible to as many people as possible. The series is sponsored by Partners for the Arts.
Tickets may be purchased by calling the Southern Miss Ticket Office at 601.266.5418. Students get in free with any valid university I.D.