The Cal Poly Bands will conclude their season with a concert titled “Journey Home” at 3 p.m. Sunday, May 31, in the Performing Arts Center. The spring concert will showcase a powerful program of wind band repertory and a special world premiere.
The Cal Poly Wind Orchestra, conducted by Nicholas P. Waldron, will perform Robert Russell Bennett’s lively and nostalgic “Suite of Old American Dances” alongside Andrew Boysen, Jr.’s energetic “Kirkpatrick Fanfare.” The selections highlight the rich traditions and evolving voice of the wind band medium.
The Cal Poly Wind Ensemble, under the direction of Christopher J. Woodruff, will present John Mackey’s symphony inspired by Homer’s “The Odyssey.” This sweeping work brings to life the epic journey of Odysseus through vivid musical storytelling, capturing themes of adventure, struggle, and the enduring pull of home.
A centerpiece of the program will be the world premiere of “Imprints That Shine” by composer Laura M. Kramer. Commissioned by the Cal Poly chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi, the national honorary band fraternity, the work celebrates the 44-year career of music Professor William Johnson, director of bands emeritus. The project reflects Johnson’s lasting impact on generations of musicians and the Cal Poly band community.
In a special tribute, more than 50 Cal Poly band alumni will join current ensemble members on stage for the premiere performance, creating a powerful intergenerational collaboration that embodies the concert’s theme, “Journey Home.”
“This event promises an afternoon of compelling music and meaningful celebration, honoring both the past and future of Cal Poly Bands,” said music major Elizabeth Grulikowski, a clarinet player in both bands.
