Role

:

Ensemble

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Orchestral

 

The Omnibus Wind Ensemble is a classical music ensemble that has been entertaining audiences with their unique blend of wind instruments since 1976. The ensemble was founded by a group of musicians who shared a passion for wind music and wanted to create a platform to showcase their talents. The founding members of the Omnibus Wind Ensemble were all accomplished musicians in their own right. They included Robert Bloom, a renowned oboist who had played with the New York Philharmonic and the NBC Symphony Orchestra; Harold Goltzer, a clarinetist who had performed with the New York City Opera and the American Symphony Orchestra; and Arthur Weisberg, a bassoonist who had played with the New York Philharmonic and the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra. The ensemble's name, Omnibus, was chosen to reflect the diverse range of music that they played. The group's repertoire included classical works, contemporary pieces, and even jazz arrangements. The ensemble's instrumentation was also unique, featuring a combination of woodwind and brass instruments, including oboe, clarinet, bassoon, horn, and trumpet. The Omnibus Wind Ensemble quickly gained a reputation for their exceptional musicianship and innovative programming. They performed at major concert halls and festivals across the United States and Europe, including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Edinburgh Festival. The ensemble also recorded several albums, including "Music for Wind Instruments" and "The Omnibus Wind Ensemble Plays Mozart." One of the highlights of the Omnibus Wind Ensemble's career was their performance at the 1980 Olympic Games in Lake Placid, New York. The ensemble was invited to perform at the opening ceremony, where they played a medley of American folk songs and classical pieces. The performance was broadcast to millions of viewers around the world and helped to raise the profile of the ensemble. The Omnibus Wind Ensemble also received numerous awards and accolades throughout their career. They were awarded the ASCAP Award for Adventurous Programming in 1982 and 1983, and the National Endowment for the Arts Chamber Music Award in 1984. The ensemble was also nominated for a Grammy Award in 1985 for their album "The Omnibus Wind Ensemble Plays Mozart." Despite their success, the Omnibus Wind Ensemble faced some challenges over the years. In 1986, Robert Bloom passed away, leaving a void in the ensemble. However, the group continued to perform and record, and in 1990, they released their album "The Omnibus Wind Ensemble Plays Poulenc," which was well-received by critics and audiences alike. Today, the Omnibus Wind Ensemble continues to perform and inspire audiences with their unique blend of wind music. The current members of the ensemble include Thomas Stacy on oboe, Charles Neidich on clarinet, Frank Morelli on bassoon, William Purvis on horn, and Stephen Taylor on trumpet. The ensemble's repertoire has expanded to include works by contemporary composers, and they continue to push the boundaries of what is possible with wind instruments. In conclusion, the Omnibus Wind Ensemble is a classical music ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the world of wind music. Their innovative programming, exceptional musicianship, and unique instrumentation have earned them a place in the pantheon of great classical music ensembles. Despite the challenges they have faced over the years, the ensemble has continued to thrive and inspire audiences around the world.

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