The Music and Art of J. Clifton Williams

Featuring

Barry Ellis
David Cooper
Margaret Cornils Luke
Rountree Wind Symphony
University of Wisconsin-Platteville Singing Pioneers Alumni
Clifton Williams

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Composer Biography

Clifton Williams won the first American Bandmaster's Association Sousa/Ostwald Award in 1956 for his composition 'Fanfare and Allegro,' and again the following year for 'Symphonic Suite.'

Cultural Impact

Clifton Williams is credited with revolutionizing band music and opening the door for contemporary symphonic band literature after 1950.

Composer Biography

James Clifton Williams, the composer, developed a deep interest in music as a junior high student, experimenting with arranging and composition without formal training.

Critical Reception

Clifton Williams's work, 'New Generation,' was rejected by publishers for 15 years because they deemed it too difficult for high school players.

Composer Biography

Clifton Williams served in the U.S. Air Force (Army Air Corps) as a bandsman during World War II, composing new works whenever possible.

Recording & Production

This recording, 'Classics and Newly Discovered Gems,' is the inaugural album of the Rountree Wind Symphony, an ensemble of talented musicians from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and regional professionals.

Composer's Artistic Vision

Clifton Williams believed American composers should avoid excessive cosmopolitanism and express themselves using materials from their own background and heritage.