The UH Music Department welcomed the acclaimed Bergen Wind Quintet on Tuesday, October 14, for a masterclass on chamber music and ensemble playing. In town for a concert with Chamber Music Hawaii, the Bergen Wind Quintet spent several hours on the UH campus, playing several pieces for the students and discussing many aspects of chamber music performance.
Music student Casey Kitano said, “The Bergen Wind Quintet was amazing and inspiring to listen to. Their ability to blend the sounds of each individual instrument into a unique sonority is something I haven’t ever heard live. Also, their advice on chamber playing, as well as the importance of group chemistry, is not soon to be forgotten. I’m humbled and honored to have heard them play.”
Dr. Jeffrey Boeckman, Director of Bands at UH Mānoa, said, “we’re so fortunate to be able to provide opportunities like this for our students. The suggestions and insights shared by the Bergen Wind Quintet were invaluable, and will continue to resonate with both our students and faculty.”
One of the world’s finest and most acclaimed chamber ensembles, the Norway-based Bergen Wind Quintet has performed to great acclaim the world over for several decades. Audiences and critics alike have come under the spell of the BWQ’s interpretations, with the ensemble’s trademark virtuosity and breath-taking dynamic range, always at the service of the music.