America, Flutes in Concert. Photo by Devon Hoffman.
DSC’s flute choir closed out Tuesday evening with their Tour of America, Flutes in Concert. The showcase of flute versatility celebrated America’s 250th anniversary with eight compositions. Titles such as “Appalachian Suite” highlighted regional identities and landscapes across the Americas. As the blue lights dimmed shyly, 31 choir members entered the spotlight in single file. The smaller instruments of the ensemble contrasted sharply with a towering contrabass on the left.
Following the concert, director Elsa Kate Nichols said, “We’ve been preparing since around the middle to end of September.”
Beginning with “The Cascades,” the night’s growing tension of silence and anticipation broke as Nichols’ hands struck down. Suddenly, the open room danced with poppy, jumpy melodies, blending short and long moments. Afterward, “Southwestern Sketches” led the audience through Tucson, starting as hopeful hums, ending on a cowboy and coyote chase of staccatos.
“Ashokan Farewell,” arranged by Ricky Lombardo, evoked the melancholy of summer gatherings ending. Taking on a flowy character, the piece stayed restrained. Nichols said of Lombardo, “He just writes with lush harmonies, fresh takes on tunes that are already out there.”
“Mississippi River Suite” continued, depicting Mississippi’s water in transitions from erratic to quiet. “Four Seasons in Maine” and “Beach Party” brought autumn walks and shoreline fun with “Appalachian Suite” combining folk influences.
Ending the concert, “Chattanooga Choo Choo” expelled any end-of-concert grief immediately. One choir member’s part incorporated a handheld train horn and a comical pitch whistle. Paul and Debbie Johns, parents of Sara Johns, said, “My favorite moment was the Chattanooga one. Our daughter played that part, she’s a Beachside Elementary music teacher.” Applause erupted, and the performers recovered in laughter, exchanging relieved glances.