New Work for Soprano and Symphonic Winds
Robert Ambrose (Georgia State University), Lindsay Kesselman (UNCG), and a consortium of 11 ensembles have commissioned a new work for solo soprano and symphonic winds by Gala Flagello. The piece will be 18–20 minutes in length, structured as multiple movements, setting a selection of poems to be determined by Flagello and Kesselman. Flagello's work will explore themes of perseverance, vulnerability, compassion, joy, belonging, ambition, and awe. The solo soprano and symphonic winds will both be featured, balancing and highlighting their unique colors and characteristics to create a moving, kaleidoscopic large-scale work.
New Work Details
Instrumentation: Solo soprano voice with symphonic winds, approximately as follows: piccolo, flute (2 parts), oboe (2 parts), clarinet (3 parts), bass clarinet, bassoon (2 parts), horn (2-4 parts), trumpet (3 parts), trombone (3 parts), tuba, piano, percussion (timpani & 4-5 players)
Duration: 18-20 minutes, split into movements
Delivery: December 15, 2026
Premiere: February 2, 2027 with Lindsay Kesselman and the Georgia State University Bands
Co-Commissioner Information:
-
If you would like to support this project or have questions, please contact Ashley Killam at ashley@ak-artists.com.
-
Co-commissioners are not required to engage Lindsay Kesselman as the soloist for their consortium premiere, though she is the project's recommended soloist.
Primary Co-Commissioners
Georgia State University, Robert Ambrose (Consortium Lead)
Lindsay Kesselman (Consortium Lead)
Arkansas Tech University, Dan Belongia
Louisiana State University, Damon Talley
Shenandoah Conservatory, Timothy Robblee
Temple University, Trish Cornett
University of Miami, Michael Hancock
University of North Carolina Greensboro, Jonathan Caldwell
Additional Co-Commissioners
Columbus State University, Jamie Nix
South Dakota State University, Jacob Wallace
Texas Tech University, Sarah McKoin
University of Michigan, Jason Fettig
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, John Lynch
Explore Gala's works for winds:
The Bird-While (2022) for solo flute, clarinet, violin, cello, and symphonic winds, performed by Hub New Music and the University of Illinois Wind Symphony, cond. Kevin Geraldi
Love & Nature (2024) for wind band, performed by the United States Coast Guard Band, cond. CDR Adam Williamson
Modern Legacy (2025) for large chamber winds, performed by the University of Florida Bands, cond. David Waybright