A bold fusion of music and metaphor, James Syler’s Symphony No. 1 “Blue” is a deeply moving work for soprano, chorus, and wind ensemble—part symphony, part oratorio, and wholly transformative. Structured in five movements and rooted in a narrative text, this choral symphony explores the spiritual arc of a modern soul navigating despair, stillness, revelation, and ultimately, renewal.

Inspired by literary figures such as Joseph Conrad’s Kurtz and the poetic voice of T.S. Eliot, Syler constructs a powerful meditation on inner emptiness and the mysterious process of change. The symphony follows a chiastic form (ABCBA), mirroring a descent into hopelessness and an ascent toward spiritual awakening. Each movement—Impending Blue, Dark Blue, Fading Blue, Still Point Blue, and True Blue—marks a stage in this emotional and philosophical journey.

The world premiere of Rivers Ascending by James Syler is a striking new concerto that reimagines the tuba as a vessel of transformation. Inspired by the metaphor of water rising against gravity, the work explores the tuba’s surprising lyrical and virtuosic range—challenging expectations and defying limitations. Like rivers ascending into steam, the tuba emerges from the depths to soar, sing, and tell a story of renewal and possibility.

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Syler Symphony  No.1 "Blue"

Wake Forest University

Eastman Wind Orchestra 2026

Eastman Theatre

Join the Piedmont Wind Symphony as we kick off our 35th Anniversary Season! We will premiere PWS musician Michael Robinson’s Fanfare 1989, celebrating our lasting impact on the Winston-Salem community. Enjoy the consortium premiere of James Syler’s provocative Birds of Paradise, featuring saxophonist and UNCSA Faculty Bobby Young, highlighting our long-standing partnership with the university.

James Syler

Events

Past events

Feb 21, 2026

Syler Symphony No.1 "Blue" · Piedmont Wind Symphony

Feb 2 - Apr 20, 2026

Eastman Wind Orchestra 2026 · Eastman School of Music

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