levy

On Thursday, Feb 21st, the Madison Music Collective presented a lecture and video on the life and music of one-time Madison composer and resident Alec Wilder (1907-1980) by Robert Levy, Lawrence University Professor Emeritus of Music. (See photos here.) Most of you are probably familiar with compositions of Alec Wilder, but may not be aware of the scope of his work or why he is considered by many to be one of the more prominent "unsung" American composers. Levy was able to illuminate the many segments of Wilder's life and work, both through his personal friendship with the composer and his familiarity with Wilder's music.

The background music on the video amplified the many styles of Wilder's music from ballet and film music to his marvelous instrumental octets and wind ensemble compositions. Wilder's association with the jazz world included arranging for Benny Goodman, Harry James, Gene Krupa, Red Norvo and writing for Ethel Waters, Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra. He was also the composer of standard songs such as "It's So Peaceful In the Country," and "I'll Be Around."

His association at the University of Wisconsin, Madison was especially noted by the presence at the lecture of retired UW music faculty members: Richard Lottridge, Robert Cole, Marvin Rabin and Bill Richardson, all good friends of Wilder during his numerous visits to Madison. reviewed by Joan Wildman