Arcadian Winds is a classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their unique blend of wind instruments since their founding in 1989. The ensemble is made up of five members, each of whom is a highly skilled musician with a passion for classical music. The founding members of Arcadian Winds were all graduates of the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. They were brought together by their shared love of wind music and their desire to create a new kind of ensemble that would showcase the beauty and versatility of wind instruments. The original members of Arcadian Winds were flutist Laura Gilbert, oboist Peggy Pearson, clarinetist Jonathan Cohler, bassoonist Richard Ranti, and horn player William Purvis. Each member brought their own unique talents and experiences to the group, and together they created a sound that was both powerful and delicate, with a depth and richness that was truly remarkable. Over the years, Arcadian Winds has become known for their innovative programming and their ability to bring new life to classical music. They have performed all over the world, from the United States to Europe to Asia, and have received numerous awards and accolades for their work. One of the highlights of Arcadian Winds' career was their performance at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, Georgia. The ensemble was chosen to represent the United States in the Cultural Olympiad, a celebration of the arts that was held in conjunction with the games. Their performance was a huge success, and they received rave reviews from audiences and critics alike. Another major highlight for Arcadian Winds was their performance at the 2004 International Double Reed Society Conference in Melbourne, Australia. The ensemble was invited to perform at the conference, which is one of the most prestigious events in the world of wind music. Their performance was a huge success, and they received a standing ovation from the audience. In addition to their performances, Arcadian Winds has also released several critically acclaimed recordings. Their debut album, "Arcadian Winds," was released in 1993 and featured works by Mozart, Beethoven, and Brahms. Their second album, "Wind Power," was released in 1997 and featured works by Stravinsky, Poulenc, and Hindemith. Arcadian Winds has also been recognized for their contributions to the world of classical music. In 1999, they were awarded the Chamber Music America/ASCAP Award for Adventurous Programming. This award is given to ensembles that demonstrate a commitment to innovative programming and the performance of new and unusual works. In addition to their performances and recordings, Arcadian Winds is also committed to education and outreach. They have conducted masterclasses and workshops for students of all ages, and have worked with schools and community organizations to promote the importance of classical music. Today, Arcadian Winds continues to be one of the most respected and innovative ensembles in the world of classical music. Their commitment to excellence and their passion for wind music has earned them a devoted following and a place in the pantheon of great classical music ensembles.

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