The Composition
This work was commissioned by the Band Directors of the Texas Music Educators Association, Region II, North Zone, for the 1998 Region II 4A-5A All-District Band, Wichita Falls, Texas
The composer had this to say about the piece, "Settled in 1876, Wichita Falls, Texas, became a cattle and grain shipping center after the arrival of the railroad in 1882. One can imagine the hustle and bustle of this cowboy town in those railroad days where the 'rambunctiousness' of the cowhand came face to face with the businesslike demeanor of the mercantile owners and the frontier gentility of the Ladies Society. For my good friends in Region II, I offer this 'celebrative' cowboy dance to commemorate the rip-roaring history that surrounds this portion of the Texas portrait."
The Composer
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David Holsinger was born in Hardin, Missouri, December 26, 1945. His compositions have won four major competitions, including a two time ABA Ostwald Award. His compositions have also been finalists in both the DeMoulin and Sudler competitions. He holds degrees from Central Methodist College, Fayette, Missouri, and Central Missouri State University in Warrensburg. Holsinger has completed course work for DMA at the University of Kansas, Lawrence. The composer has been honored by Gustavus Adolphus College with the awarding of an Honorary Doctorate for lifetime achievement in composition and the Gustavus Fine Arts Medallion, the divisions highest honor, designed and sculpted by renowned artist, Paul Granlund. After 16 years of service to Shady Grove Church, Grand Prairie, Texas, as Composer-in-Residence, Holsinger and his wife, Winona, now call Cleveland, Tennessee home, where the composer serves as Director of the Lee University Wind Ensemble. From this beautiful area in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Holsinger continues to travel extensively as a conductor and clinician throughout the United States. |
The Performance
Large Group Performance Evaluation 2017