KU Wind Ensemble Releases New Album Midnight Sun – Highlights from the University of Kansas School of Music

Discover the New Midnight Sun Album

The University of Kansas School of Music has just released the latest recording from its acclaimed KU Wind Ensemble. Titled Midnight Sun, the album showcases six brand‑new commercial recordings that push the boundaries of modern wind repertoire. Available now on all major streaming platforms, the release offers listeners a fresh perspective on contemporary wind music and highlights the ensemble’s technical prowess and artistic depth.

Track Highlights and Composer Spotlight

Each track on Midnight Sun brings a distinct voice to the ensemble’s soundscape. Below is a quick overview of the pieces and the composers who brought them to life:

• Majestic – James Barnes (3:10)
• Colors of the Midnight Sun – Isabella Morrill (6:45)
• Deciduous – Viet Cuong (8:05)
• Stride – Kevin Day (6:30)
• Colorful Clouds Chasing the Moon – Yuen‑hing (3:35)
• Concerto for Euphonium – Tom Davoren, featuring soloist Hiram Diaz (23:02)

The closing concerto earned the American Bandmasters Association (ABA) Ostwald Composition Prize, underscoring the ensemble’s commitment to premiering award‑winning works.

Behind the Music: Faculty and Student Collaboration

Dean Paul Popiel, conductor of the KU Wind Ensemble, praised the students’ dedication and the faculty’s mentorship. “These recordings are a testament to the passion and excellence that define our School of Music,” Popiel said. The project was recorded at the Lied Center of Kansas, a venue known for its acoustics and support of student artistry.

Why This Release Matters for Music Students and Educators

For aspiring musicians, Midnight Sun offers a masterclass in contemporary wind performance. The album demonstrates how modern compositions can be interpreted with clarity, dynamic range, and expressive nuance. Educators can use the recordings as teaching tools, illustrating effective rehearsal techniques, ensemble cohesion, and the integration of soloists within a larger group.

Actionable Takeaways for Students

• Study the phrasing and articulation in each track to improve your own performance technique.
• Listen to the solo passages, especially the euphonium concerto, to understand how a soloist can shape the ensemble’s overall sound.
• Explore the composers’ backgrounds to gain insight into contemporary wind writing trends.

Actionable Takeaways for Educators

• Incorporate the album into your curriculum as a benchmark for modern repertoire.
• Use the recordings to discuss the role of the conductor in shaping ensemble dynamics.
• Encourage students to analyze the award‑winning concerto for compositional techniques that resonate with audiences.

Explore More About the University of Kansas School of Music

The University of Kansas School of Music continues to nurture talent across a wide range of disciplines. From undergraduate programs to advanced research, the school offers resources that support both academic and artistic growth.

Submit your application today and join a community that values innovation, collaboration, and excellence in music education.

Connect and Learn More

Interested in learning how the KU Wind Ensemble’s approach can benefit your own musical journey? Schedule a free consultation to learn more with our admissions team.

Have questions about the album or the School of Music’s programs? Write to us!

Want to dive deeper into contemporary wind repertoire? Explore our related articles for further reading.

Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below – we’d love to hear how Midnight Sun has inspired you.