New Pathways Frost Wind Ensemble

A contemporary program anchored by a world premiere brings guitar and wind ensemble into focused conversation, highlighting new directions in modern concert music. Led by conductor Michael Hancock, the Frost Wind Ensemble is joined by guitarist Matthew Cochran for the debut of Sean Hickey’s Congregate Settings, alongside a newly commissioned work by composer Donald Grantham, creating a performance shaped by collaboration and living composers’ voices.

Cochran, noted by Soundboard for his commanding stage presence and inventive interpretation, serves as the featured soloist for the evening, working closely with the ensemble on repertoire that expands the expressive range of the wind ensemble format. Composer Sean Hickey is also present, offering direct insight into the creative process behind the premiere.

New Pathways: Frost Wind Ensemble takes place Saturday, April 11 at UM Gusman Concert Hall and is part of the Frost School of Music’s Signature Events lineup for the 2025–2026 season, a series that spotlights high-level performances and cross-genre exploration by faculty artists, students and distinguished guests.