Contributions to the wind ensemble medium by three contemporary American composers: Norman Dello Joio, Warren Benson, and Samuel Adler

Abstract

The wind ensemble compositions of Norman Dello Joio, Warren Benson, and Samuel Adler serve as pioneering contributions to the medium. The purpose of this study is to synthesize, analyze, and compare the contributions of these three contemporary composers. The dissertation examines their biographies, compositional philosophies and styles, thoughts on conducting and strategic approaches to conducting their music. Included are analyses of representative wind music from each composer as well as a catalogue of their works and recordings. The writer's in-person interviews offer discernment into the musical lives of these composers and their landmark contributions to the wind ensemble repertoire.