Kokomo High School Band Director Brandon Anderson and his award-winning Performing Arts students made the World Premiere of the “Spirit of Innovation” a reality Tuesday (March 22nd) evening at the KHS auditorium. This special piece of band music was composed by emerging composer, Adrian B. Sims, after being commissioned by Mr. Anderson. This World Premiere performance of the “Spirit of Innovation” was the finale of the KHS Band’s Winter Concert.
“The pandemic limited the experiences for our band students – no live performances, no guest artists, no guest conductors – things that had become traditions,” Mr. Anderson explained. “So, the Band instructors wanted to do something extra special to fill some of those voids. This process began near the beginning of this school year when I contacted a young composer, Adrian B. Sims. Our band members had played and enjoyed some of Mr. Sims’ work. Once Mr. Sims agreed to be part of the project, the writing of the music took about 4 months.”
Following an initial discussion with Mr. Anderson, Mr. Sims noted that he knew then what the title would be for the Kokomo High School special music.
“While I was on the phone with the commission organizer, Brandon Anderson, discussing ideas for a new piece, Mr. Anderson mentioned the spirit of innovation that has, and continues to take place, in Kokomo, Indiana,” Mr. Sims explained. “As soon as I heard those three words, “Spirit of Innovation”, I knew instantly that this would be the title of the piece; and shortly thereafter, I began sketching musical ideas.”
Mr. Sims, a native of Seattle, Washington, is considered an emerging composer, conductor, and educator, according to Mr. Anderson. “Kokomo High School felt very fortunate to have someone with Mr. Sims talent composing this special piece of band music for our students,” Mr. Anderson added. “I also wish to thank the Kokomo community for its continued support.”