Imani Winds at the Hudson River Museum
The internationally acclaimed, New York-based group, Imani Winds made a recent appearance at the Hudson River Museum in Yonkers. The extraordinary wind quintet participated in Purchase College’s yearlong project, Africa and the African Diaspora: Traditions, Revolutions and Innovations. They spent four days in residence, and performed in venues throughout Westchester.
The ensemble included Mariam Adam (clarinet), Valerie Coleman (flute), Monica Ellis (bassoon), Toyin Spellman-Diaz (oboe), and Jeff Scott (French horn). They are currently celebrating their 10th anniversary, and are noted for their eclectic repertoire, which embraces classical, jazz, African and Latin music. Their show included music by Maurice Ravel, Paquito D'Rivera, and an original composition by Jeff Scott.
Valerie Coleman founded Imani Winds. She said, “the idea just came into my head to form a group. I called everybody. All of us are sought after freelance musicians.” The word “imani” means “faith” in Swahili.
Members of the quintet told the audience that they primarily focus on the works of the African Diaspora. While they readily admitted that woodwind compositions were rare, it also provided a unique opportunity for resident composers, Valerie Coleman and Jeff Scott, to expand their repertoire.
The informal performance had a lively question and answer component. The musicians also provided a brief introduction to each instrument.
To commemorate their 10th anniversary, the ensemble has embarked on a five-year project to commission 10 new compositions from established and emerging composers of color. The Legacy Commissioning Project will explore elements “that embrace African and Afro-Cuban traditions, Asian and Middle Eastern culture, and jazz.”
Deena Parham