Elliott’s Hardware, a favorite institution in Dallas and a long-time sponsor of The Dallas Wind Symphony, inspires people to create things.  Composer-in-Residence John Gibson is no exception.  His latest composition, “Man Dreams in Hardware,” is played on instruments constructed from items found on the shelves at Elliott’s.  Imagine the Sawsaphone, the Patuba and Batuba, and the PVCiccolo!  Join Professor Carol as she talks with Gibson about his sweeping theme: God, Man, and Hardware.

We take a journey through the Arabian Nights, visit the Roman Goddess of the Dawn, and thrill to the tragic fate of Spanish seductress Carmen.  

Let's get to know Jeff Hellmer, pianist and director for the Dallas Wind Symphony's annual Big Band Boogie concert.

Frank Ticheli is a superstar composer in the world of Wind Music. Performers, audiences, and reviewers love the optimism, energy, and spontaneity of his music. Yet Professor of Composition at USC Tikeli must also teach the creative process. His observations offer insight into his works.

Professor Carol traces the path of film music up to the famous scores of master composer John Williams.  His ability to use "just a few notes" to intensify drama has captured our imaginations for four decades.     

The Tulsa Symphony Season Preview continues with Part Two.

A look at the Tulsa Symphony's 2007-2008 concert programs.

Rossini, the master of bel canto opera, retired young, rich, and famous. Decades later, in old age and ill health, Rossini returned to composition and crafted a liturgical mass as his final work, a work both spiritual and theatrical, Petit Messe Solonnelle.

Works Discussed: Rossini's Petit Messe Solonnelle

Tchaikovsky's music holds a sacred place in Russian culture.  Dmitri Shostakovich said, "Without Tchaikovsky we could not endure our sorrows."  Professor Carol examines his Fifth Symphony and considers his life, his personal struggles, and his professional successes.

Works Discussed:  Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 5, Symphony No. 4, The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, The Queen of Spades