Flutes, trumpets and saxophones blended with one another when the Georgia Southern University Symphonic Wind Ensemble performed live classical music Friday evening.

Held at the Performing Arts Center, the event featured students playing songs with wind instruments like the oboe, the bassoon, the clarinet and so much more, accompanied by percussion instruments as well. The ensemble was led by conductor and director of bands at GSU Dr. Robert Dunham, whose aim was for all to find enjoyment in this recital.

“I think different pieces appeal to different people. Hopefully some were a little moved or a little inspired,” Dunham said.

As soon as the performers sat in their seats on stage, the audience revered with respect for a large group of students dressed in black. The conductor took the stage, welcomed by the applause of the audience and the stomping feet of the ensemble. The symphony then began with a piece entitled “Toccata Marziale” by Ralph Vaughn Williams. As each song resembled a different mood, each sound from every wind instrument blended together to create resonance that the audience could enjoy.

“Live music is so different than music you hear on the radio. More feelings come out than with stuff you hear on the radio,” sophomore information technology major Amanda Mullany said.

Dunham works hard to ensure that his students provide quality sound. Since there are three concerts each semester, performers must practice four hours a day for three days a week. To provide listeners with a variety of sounds from the wind ensemble, Dunham chooses new pieces for students to learn for every single concert.

After playing for nearly 13 years, senior biology major and trumpet player Jake Edwards thinks it takes effort from every student to have a successful recital.

“Everybody has to work together and listen to each other. The rest of it is practicing on your own,” Edwards said.

As the performances continued, the ensemble captured the tender sounds of autumn with “October” by Eric Whitacre. The audience also got to use whimsical imagination while listening to the final piece “Cartoon” by Paul Hart. During the recital of the whimsical piece, snickering laughter could be heard throughout the hall as the audience got to use their imagination and envision a classic cartoon chase.

Whether audiences were there to receive extra credit or to see their daughter on stage, the GSU Wind Ensemble brought a new style of music to the ears of Statesboro.