Program Notes
Tenacity (2025) was commissioned by the United States Naval Academy Band in celebration of the United States' 250th birthdate, the 180th anniversary of the U.S. Naval Academy, and the 50th anniversary of women entering service academies. Through harmonious chorale passages and discordant rhythmic interplay, the piece musically depicts determination, belonging, grit, and persistence. In her memoir Flight Lessons, CAPT Barbara Bell, Ed.D. USN (ret), USNA Class of 1983 writes, "It is true that not all of us may be able to change the world, but each and every one of us can change our piece of it." Tenacity honors this outlook as the ensemble soars melodically and navigates textural turbulence, bravely landing in a radiant, resolute sound world. Special thanks to Lieutenant Commander Luis Espinosa, Master Chief Musician Todd Nix, Master Chief Musician Lynda Dembowski, and the extraordinary Naval Academy alumni who generously participated in the composer's fieldwork for this piece.
Additional Information
Commissioner's Note
With Tenacity, the United States Academy Band honors historic commemorations taking place during our 2025-2026 performance season. Tenacity pays tribute to the legacy of service of Navy and Marine Corps Officers during the Naval Academy's 180 years of warfighting success. Tenacity commemmorates the 50th anniversary of women joining service academies, a milestone made possible by President Gerald R. Ford's signing of Public Law 94-106, that led to their admission and enrollment by 1976.
Finally, Tenacity celebrates the 250th anniversary of the United States, a nation founded on the revolutionary ideals of liberty, justice, and opportunity. This milestone reaffirms the enduring strength of American principles, shining as a beacon of hope and progress around the globe.
We are profoundly grateful to composer Gala Flagello for joining us on this project and for conveying our cherished values and traditions so beautifully through the language of music.
- Lieutenant Commander Luis Espinosa, 34th Director of the U.S. Naval Academy Band
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