Lord of the Rings

November 1, 2025 7:30PM Brendle Recital Hall

Piedmont Wind Symphony
Mark A. Norman, Artistic Director & Conductor

Ksenija Komljenović, Antek Olesik; Percussion Duo
Johan de Meij, Guest Conductor

Step into Middle-earth as Piedmont Wind Symphony brings to life Johan de Meij’s Symphony No. 1 The Lord of the Rings, a powerful musical journey inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien’s iconic fantasy epic. Composed in 1988 and winner of the prestigious Sudler Composition Award in 1989, this groundbreaking work was the first symphony ever written specifically for concert band by de Meij.

Structured in five evocative movements, de Meij’s symphony captures the spirit and mystery of Tolkien’s world—from the commanding presence of Gandalf to the shimmering beauty of Lothlórien, the tragic duality of Gollum, the perilous Journey in the Dark, and the warm-hearted resilience of the Hobbits. With vivid orchestration and dramatic storytelling, this performance promises an unforgettable adventure for Tolkien fans and symphonic music lovers alike.