Illumination | June 6 & 7, 2025
Immerse yourself in an extraordinary evening of music as the Capital Wind Symphony proudly presents Illuminations, a concert designed to celebrate the profound and evocative power of music to inspire, uplift, and transform. This thoughtfully curated program features contemporary compositions that delve into the multifaceted concept of light, exploring its symbolism, its emotional resonance, and its ability to spark reflection and discovery in uniquely compelling ways.
The evening opens with David Biedenbender’s Luminescence, a work that captures the shimmering and radiant qualities of light through music. Inspired by the beauty of bioluminescence in nature, Biedenbender masterfully blends vibrant colors, dynamic rhythms, and luminous textures to create a soundscape that feels alive and glowing. The piece conveys a sense of wonder and awe, inviting listeners to reflect on the extraordinary in the natural world and the power of light to illuminate even the darkest spaces.
The program also features Lili Boulanger’s D’un Soir Triste, a poignant and introspective work by one of the most gifted composers of the early 20th century. Composed during the final years of her life, this piece reflects Boulanger’s profound emotional depth and sensitivity. Its somber tones and evocative harmonies capture a sense of melancholy and longing, offering a deeply personal meditation on the fragility of life and the beauty found within sorrow. Boulanger’s ability to blend rich orchestral colors with delicate nuances creates a musical experience that is both haunting and unforgettable.
At the heart of the program lies a deeply special performance of David Maslanka’s Symphony No. 4, a masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. This performance honors the 30th anniversary of the composition’s premiere, inviting listeners on a spiritual and emotional journey through its rich textures and themes of hope, healing, and transcendence. As an extraordinary prelude to this iconic work, the evening will feature a one-of-a-kind sound healing presentation, setting the stage for an experience that promises to engage the mind, body, and soul.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of an evening that bridges artistry, emotion, and meaning. Illuminations invites you to celebrate the enduring power of music to bring light to our world in both literal and metaphorical ways.
- The first concert will take place in the beautiful setting of St. Bernadette Catholic Church on Friday, June 6, at 7:30 p.m., providing the perfect acoustics for this luminous program. Admission is FREE.
- The Capital Wind Symphony will also serve as the closing ensemble on the first day of the National Concert Band Festival at George Mason University on Saturday, June 7, delivering a second opportunity to experience Maslanka’s Symphony No. 4. Ticket information will be posted soon for this event.
