Let Us Renew That Spirit

Grade Level: 4

Commission Info: Winona State University (MN), Melanie Brooks Dinh, conductor

Duration: 5:15

Audio: Leading Tones Music

Published by: Leading Tones Music

Program Note

Let Us Renew That Spirit was commissioned by Winona State University for the 44th annual WSU High School Honor Band. The music is an expression of the joy, energy, and gratitude that we feel in this moment, as we return to live, in-person music making and performing. For over a year and a half, the wind band world had to adapt to remote, virtual instruction, rehearsals, and performances. While our community rose to that challenge and continued to move our art form forward, it was a very difficult time for composers, conductors, performers, and audiences across the globe.

This music begins with rhythmic energy, passing dance-like figures around the sections of the ensemble. The piece then goes on a journey through contrasting styles, presenting the opening melody transformed into a more lyrical setting. Finally, the energy returns to a climactic finish, introducing the familiar hymn of Thanksgiving, "Now Thank We All Our God," which, fittingly, was composed during a pandemic in 17th century Germany. We are so glad to be together again, tapping into the powerful and transformative energy that happens when we share music with one another.