The Odyssey: The Music of Robert W. Smith, Volume 3: Concert Band CD

This recording captures the full architectural scope of Smith's symphonic voice, with The Odyssey and Symphony No. 2 anchoring a collection that demonstrates his gift for writing narratively compelling music without sacrificing musical substance. Edward Petersen and the Washington Winds deliver performances that honor the emotional range Smith builds into each work, from the sweeping grandeur of the title work to the reflective beauty of In a Gentle Rain. The included performance notes and biographical context transform this beyond a listening experience into a study resource that clarifies Smith's compositional intent and storytelling approach.

The Odyssey unfolds with the grandeur of a classical epic, building through moments of heroism and reflection that feel both immediate and timeless. Lighter movements like Morpheus and In a Gentle Rain offer respite and intimacy, while works such as Apollo Fanfare and Kronos showcase Smith's mastery of color and dramatic gesture. Throughout, the recording conveys the emotional specificity embedded in each work; you hear not just technical competence but genuine engagement with the stories and moods Smith sets out to explore.

Band directors preparing Smith's major works for performance who want to hear how these compositions sound at their best, and educators seeking to deepen their understanding of contemporary American concert band composition. Advanced high school and college ensembles working toward performances of The Odyssey, Symphony No. 2, or other pieces on this collection will find the recording invaluable for understanding Smith's orchestrational voice and musical priorities.

• Study the performance notes for each work before rehearsal; they provide insight into the emotional arc and compositional conception that shape phrasing and interpretation decisions.
• Listen to how the Washington Winds balance the brass section across the full range of dynamics, particularly in the symphonic movements where weight and projection matter equally.
• Pay attention to the ensemble's articulation choices in the lighter works like To Dance in the Secret Garden; Smith's textures often reward clarity over heaviness.
• Use the recording as a reference for tempo relationships, especially in cyclical or multi-movement works where internal proportions affect overall pacing and impact.

Pair this recording with your ensemble's concert season planning; the breadth of Smith's output here makes it an ideal reference for identifying repertoire that matches your ensemble's strengths and development. Use specific movements or shorter works as warming challenges while your band develops the stamina for The Odyssey or Symphony No. 2. The liner notes serve as a study guide for conductors preparing to conduct Smith, offering both musical and contextual grounding that will sharpen rehearsal clarity and artistic focus.

• Recognizing large-scale symphonic architecture across extended concert band works
• Understanding contemporary American compositional style and voice
• Listening for narrative and emotional intent within instrumental music
• Analyzing how orchestration and color choices communicate dramatic or thematic content