Role

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Ensemble

Genre

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Chamber

 

The Aspen Wind Quintet is a classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their unique sound for over 50 years. Founded in 1966, the ensemble has become one of the most respected wind quintets in the world, known for their exceptional musicianship and innovative programming. The founding members of the Aspen Wind Quintet were flutist John Wummer, oboist Robert Bloom, clarinetist David Glazer, bassoonist Arthur Weisberg, and horn player John Barrows. All five musicians were accomplished performers in their own right, having played with some of the most prestigious orchestras in the United States. The ensemble's name comes from the Aspen Music Festival and School, where they first came together to perform. The festival, which takes place in Aspen, Colorado, is one of the most renowned classical music events in the world, attracting top musicians and music lovers from around the globe. From the beginning, the Aspen Wind Quintet set out to explore the vast repertoire of music written for wind instruments. They quickly gained a reputation for their virtuosic performances and their ability to bring new life to classic works. They also commissioned new works from contemporary composers, expanding the repertoire for wind quintet and pushing the boundaries of what was possible with these instruments. Over the years, the ensemble has undergone some changes in membership, but the core values of the group have remained the same. Today, the Aspen Wind Quintet is made up of flutist Nadine Asin, oboist Elaine Douvas, clarinetist Franklin Cohen, bassoonist Dominic Teresi, and horn player John Zirbel. All five musicians are highly respected in their field and bring a wealth of experience and talent to the ensemble. The Aspen Wind Quintet has performed all over the world, from Carnegie Hall in New York City to the Sydney Opera House in Australia. They have also been featured on numerous recordings, including several albums for the Musical Heritage Society and a recording of the complete wind quintets of Anton Reicha for the Musical Heritage Society. One of the highlights of the Aspen Wind Quintet's career was their performance at the White House for President Jimmy Carter in 1978. The ensemble was invited to play for the President and his guests at a state dinner, and their performance was met with great acclaim. The Aspen Wind Quintet has also been recognized with numerous awards and honors over the years. In 1970, they were awarded the Prix de Paris by the French government, which recognized them as one of the top wind quintets in the world. They have also been awarded the Naumburg Chamber Music Award and the Chamber Music America/ASCAP Award for Adventurous Programming. In addition to their performances and recordings, the Aspen Wind Quintet has also been dedicated to education and outreach. They have conducted masterclasses and workshops for young musicians all over the world, and have been involved in numerous educational programs in the United States. Overall, the Aspen Wind Quintet has had a remarkable career, spanning over five decades and leaving an indelible mark on the world of classical music. Their commitment to excellence, innovation, and education has made them one of the most respected and beloved ensembles in the world, and their legacy will continue to inspire musicians and music lovers for generations to come.

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