Program Notes

"Pure Imagination" from Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory
Composed by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley; arranged by Roger Wallace

"Pure Imagination" is a song from the 1971 film Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. It was written by British composers Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley specifically for the movie. It was sung by Gene Wilder who played the character of Willy Wonka. Bricusse has stated that the song was written over the phone in one day.

Since its release, the song has been covered and remixed hundreds of times by a wide variety of artists. The original song was not popular when it was first released. The film itself was not a blockbuster and other songs from the soundtrack performed better. It was not until the movie began appearing on television reruns in the 1980s that the film and "Pure Imagination" became more well known. Although the original song never charted, some cover versions have done so.

In the week following Wilder's death in 2016, the song rose in streams and sales by more than 1000%. The song was featured in television, radio, and social media tributes to Wilder. 

"From Sea to Summit"
Composed by Carla R. Terava

Carla R. Terava (b. 1954) is a graduate of the Lionel Hampton School of Music at the University of Idaho in Moscow, Idaho. She studied flute under Professor Richard Hahn and received a Music Education degree with a double major in Instrumental and Vocal music. Her passion for composing began at an early age but was inspired by Professor Ronald Klimko at the University of Idaho.

"From Sea to Summit" is a composition for flute quartet that reflects Terava's deep appreciation for nature and adventure. The piece takes listeners on a musical journey from the ocean's depths to the mountain's peak, showcasing her ability to paint vivid landscapes through music.

"Country Gardens"
English Folk Song; arranged by Kate Agioritis

"Country Gardens" is a traditional English folk tune that has been cherished for generations. Its lively melody evokes images of blooming gardens and pastoral scenes.

"Streets of London"
Composed by Ralph McTell; arranged by Genessa West

"Streets of London" is a song written by British singer-songwriter Ralph McTell. It was first recorded for his 1969 album Spiral Staircase but was not released in the United Kingdom as a single until 1974. The song has been covered by over 200 artists.

"Polka Italienne"
Composed by Sergei Rachmaninoff (1873–1943); arranged by Kenneth Baird

Sergei Rachmaninoff composed "Polka Italienne" in 1906, inspired by a melody he encountered during his travels in Italy. While specific details about the exact circumstances are scarce, it is believed that Rachmaninoff heard this tune performed by local musicians, which led him to create this light-hearted piece. Originally written for piano four hands, "Polka Italienne" showcases Rachmaninoff's ability to blend his Russian musical heritage with the lively rhythms characteristic of Italian dance music. This composition offers a glimpse into the composer's lighter, more playful side, contrasting with his often more somber and introspective works.

"What a Wonderful World"
Composed by George David Weiss and Bob Thiele; arranged by Cindy Blevins

"What a Wonderful World" is a song written by Bob Thiele (as "George Douglas") and George David Weiss. It was first recorded by Louis Armstrong and released in 1967 as a single, which topped the pop charts in the United Kingdom.

"Tales from the Vienna Woods"
Composed by Johann Strauss Jr. (1825–1899); arranged by Jeremy Corcoran

Johann Strauss II, known as the "Waltz King," composed "Tales from the Vienna Woods" in 1868. This waltz paints a musical picture of the serene and picturesque Vienna Woods.

"Hungarian Dance No. 5"
Composed by Johannes Brahms (1833–1897); arranged by Ian Deterling

Johannes Brahms's "Hungarian Dances" are a set of 21 lively dance tunes based mostly on Hungarian themes. Dance No. 5 is perhaps the most famous of the set, known for its energetic rhythms and captivating melodies.