This most recent of Klavier’s Wind Band releases is a collection of music by composer Ron Nelson whose wind band compositions span six decades of the 20th and 21st centuries. Included are some of Nelson’s earliest works such as the Mayflower Overture composed in 1958, and his most recent works like Pastorale: Autumn Rune written in 2006. Other pieces included that show the breadth and depth of Nelson’s music are Fanfare for the Kennedy Center (commissioned by the National Symphony Orchestra and Sir Neville Marriner) and a pyrotechinally brilliant work representing the optimism the world felt at the dawn of the 21st century, Fanfare for the New Millenium.

Lawrence Johnson of the Chicago Tribune has said that “Nelson’s music is ingeniously and beautifully crafted…that rarest of animals, contemporary music that is intelligently woven, fresh, audience-friendly and life-enhancing.” Ron Nelson was awarded the Medal of Honor of the John Philip Sousa Foundation in Washington, DC and an honorary doctorate from Oklahoma City University.

The album concludes with a fascinating interview with Ron Nelson.This extensive survey of Nelson’s composing career is brought to life by The Keystone Wind Ensemble under the leadership of Jack Stamp. The Keystone Wind Ensemble is comprised of approximately 50 woodwind, brass, and percussion players. All members are alumni, students, faculty or administrators from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Fanfare magazine has praised the ensemble by stating that “the group plays with precise intonation and ensemble, able to tackle tricky rhythms and keep dense textures clear.