To conclude this week long series on favorites I have decided to offer two items that are significantly different – although the two have one thing in common – they were both part of my life when I was in the doctoral program in conducting and composition at the University of Oklahoma in the mid 1970s.

First a composition by Igor Stravinsky (1882-1971) set for four vocal soloists, mixed choir, accompanied by four pianos and a large group of percussion instruments – “Les Noces” – or “The Wedding” written during the early years of the twentieth century.

I conducted this work as one of my recitals for my doctoral studies during the time I was in residence in Norman at the university. We performed an English translation rather than attempting the original Russian.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QAXanZ1B7wI

The second is an arrangement that I was honored to prepare for The Pride of Oklahoma marching band which is still used as the band enters the field prior to home games.  (NOTE:  If your browser asks if this comes from a trusted source – the answer is yes – I have opened and played it many many times).

http://www.soonersportsmedia.com/audio/oklahoma_without_intro.mp3

This coming week I plan to follow this “favorites” series with a series of posts from my own compositions and arrangements.