“RESILIENCE”

“Our mission is to promote LGBTQIA+ awareness, acceptance, and equality in a positive way through entertainment and inclusion. Our diverse membership serves the community by educating through the performing arts.”

ACT 1 

MAMBO

Song sponsored by: LeRoy Costner, The Umansky Law Firm – “Congratulations Arabella, Class of 2026!“

Mambo (from West Side Story), composed by Leonard Bernstein and arranged by Michael Sweeney, bursts with rhythmic intensity and Latin jazz energy. This iconic selection from the beloved musical captures the tension and excitement of the dance sequence in the Sharks and Jets rivalry. Driving percussion and bold brass writing create a thrilling concert opener. Back to top.

WELL WITH MY SOUL (PREMIERE)

Song sponsored by: Barbara Fowler – “In memory of my brother Jon Shirek who fought mightily against a brain cancer that took him.“

Well with My Soul (Premiere), arranged and composed by Benjamin Mairs, presents a reflective setting of the timeless hymn. The work explores peace, faith, and resilience through expressive harmonies and a broad, contemplative musical arc. This premiere underscores the ensemble’s commitment to new music and meaningful artistic collaboration. Back to top.

CHOOSE JOY

Song sponsored by: Vicki Albert – “In memory of Kathleen Muir, a former teacher, supporter of the CFSOF band, live music and the arts. Favorite mother-in-law to Vicki Albert (Sax).“

Guest Conductor: Lee Sellers, former CFSOF Artistic Director

Choose Joy, composed by Randall D. Standridge, is an uplifting work centered on optimism and resilience. Energetic rhythms and vibrant harmonies convey a message of intentional positivity through life’s challenges. Intertwined with familiar themes of Beethoven’s Ode To Joy, this piece invites performers and audiences alike to embrace joy as a conscious and transformative choice. Back to top.

FINDING A WAY

Song sponsored by: Anthony Parisi & FusionCore / Group Travel Network

Finding a Way, composed by Chris M. Bernotas, is a powerful work reflecting perseverance and determination. Through evolving melodic lines and driving harmonic motion, the piece portrays the struggle and resolve required to overcome obstacles. Its expressive writing culminates in a sense of hopeful resolution and forward momentum. Back to top.

FORWARD/STILL

Song sponsored by: The Kakadelis Family

Forward/Still, composed by Omar Thomas, is a poignant reflection on movement, identity, and resilience. The work contrasts forward-driving rhythmic energy with moments of stillness and introspection through shifting textures. Its rich harmonic language and emotional depth create a powerful and contemplative listening experience. Back to top.

THEY SHALL RUN AND BE FREE

Song sponsored by: Golden Bee Fleurs

They Shall Run and Be Free, composed by Brant Karrick, is a bold and cinematic work depicting struggle and liberation. Sweeping melodic gestures and powerful rhythmic drive in the brass and percussion sections evoke imagery of motion, urgency, and release. The composition builds toward a triumphant conclusion that celebrates endurance, unity, and freedom. Back to top.

INTERMISSION

Please check out our silent auction and place a bid or two!

ACT 2 

AFTERBURN: RELAUNCH

Song sponsored by: Rob Powell Fitness

Afterburn: Relaunch, composed by Randall D. Standridge, delivers high-energy contemporary writing in his signature style with a cinematic edge. Propulsive rhythms, bold harmonic shifts, and driving percussion create a sense of momentum and intensity throughout. The work captures the explosive feeling of ignition, acceleration, and renewed motion. Back to top.

WITH QUIET COURAGE

Song sponsored by: CFSOF – in Honor and Memory of Those We Have Lost

Guest Conductor: Chris Green, former CFSOF Artistic Director

With Quiet Courage, composed by Larry Daehn, is a lyrical tribute to perseverance and strength. Flowing melodic lines and warm harmonic textures create a deeply expressive and introspective atmosphere. The work honors resilience found in quiet determination and enduring hope through subtle dynamic shaping. Back to top.

I RISE

Colorguard Performance

I Rise, originally performed by Pentatonix, is a powerful anthem of resilience, unity, and perseverance. Centered around the lyric, “We’re soldiers on the battlefield, we rise up,” the performance symbolizes strength in the face of adversity. Through an expressive dialogue between the flags, rifles, and batons, the production transforms the music’s message into a visual portrayal of determination and hope. Back to top.

BOOM BOOM GALOP

Song sponsored by: MOKE America Orlando

Guest Conductor: Gloria Romero

Boom Boom Galop, composed by Randall D. Standridge and conducted by our March charity raffle winner Gloria Romero, is a playful and energetic concert closer. Fast-paced rhythms, sparkling orchestration, and sudden dynamic contrasts create a sense of comedic excitement. The work channels the spirit of the traditional galop with a modern, theatrical twist. Back to top.

WITH LOVE AND GRACE

Song sponsored by: YOU MATTER

With Love and Grace, composed by Nicole Piunno, is a tender and expressive work centered on warmth and sincerity. Lyrical melodies unfold over rich harmonic textures, creating a sense of intimacy and reflection. The composition offers a heartfelt musical statement that emphasizes compassion and beauty. Back to top.

STONEWALL: 1969

Song sponsored by: Chris Martin / Copperhead Salon

Guest Narrator: Chris Green, former CFSOF Artistic Director

Guest Vocalist: Ashley Thunder

Stonewall: 1969, composed by Randall D. Standridge, is a powerful programmatic work reflecting on a pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ history. Dramatic contrasts, driving rhythms, and intense harmonic language depict struggle, protest, and the fight for equality. The piece stands as a tribute to resilience, remembrance, and social progress. Back to top.

ENCORE: STARS & STRIPES FOREVER

Song sponsored by: Joseph Kennedy & Juan Canasi, in celebration of 15 years of music, pride, and community.

Stars & Stripes Forever, composed by John Philip Sousa, is one of the most iconic American marches. Its spirited melodies, brilliant woodwind flourishes, and driving march rhythm embody patriotic celebration. The enduring finale is widely recognized as a hallmark of concert band tradition and American musical heritage. Back to top.

CFSOF PERFORMING MEMBERS

Artistic Director: Dr. Lindsey Williams

Associate Artistic Director: Marques Rudd

(*) = GUEST PERFORMER
(∞) =  FOUNDING MEMBER
(+) = CFSOF BOARD MEMBER
(&) = GUEST CONDUCTOR

(*) = GUEST PERFORMER
(∞) =  FOUNDING MEMBER
(+) = CFSOF BOARD MEMBER

DONORS AND SPONSORS:

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