Capri Suite

"Capri Suite" (2025) is a vibrant, three-movement work for chamber winds commissioned by Roy McLerran and the East Texas Chamber Winds in celebration of the ensemble’s tenth season. Inspired by composer David Campo’s recent travels, the piece paints a rich sonic portrait of Italy’s fabled Island of Capri. Each movement captures a distinct landmark. "Giardini di Augusto" opens the suite with sweeping lyricism and noble character, evoking flower-laced terraces, marble statues, and the sea-salted serenity favored by Augustus himself. "Grotta Azzura" follows with shimmering textures and an otherworldly atmosphere, conjured by solo flute and water glasses—an homage to the sacred sea cave’s glowing blue depths and the reclusive spirit of Emperor Tiberius. The suite concludes with "Marina Piccola," bursting with energy and Mediterranean flair. Playful motifs leap between instruments, echoing the lively calls of fishermen, sun-drenched beaches, and the thrill of skimming past legendary sea stacks once haunted by sirens. Colorful, evocative, and cinematic, "Capri Suite" invites listeners on a journey through ancient myth, natural beauty, and the timeless allure of one of Italy’s most enchanting islands. It's a fitting tribute to a decade of music-making and to the enduring magic of travel.