Many thanks to Fanfare Magazine for reviewing “Moxie“ by the Chamber Winds of South Dakota!
This article originally appeared in Issue 49:3 (Jan/Feb 2026) of Fanfare Magazine.
Moxie is the debut release for the newly formed Chamber Winds of South Dakota. The ensemble is comprised of talented musicians, professors, conductors, producers, and arts administrators. It seems to be a Who’s Who ensemble for many high-achieving wind players from throughout the Midwest with a strong focus on South Dakota. The ensemble consists of Elizabeth Robinson and Stephanie Kocher on flute; Jennifer Wohlenhaus Bloomberg and Robin Michelle Sweeden on oboe; Michael Walsh and Beverly Gibson on clarinet; James Compton and Martin J. Van Klompenberg on bassoon; Sam Gowen and Amy Laursen on horn; and Mark Stevens on piano.
I wish that there were more chamber wind groups that performed this type of repertoire around the U.S. I often feel that we are limited as musicians to either having to gravitate to playing in smaller chamber groups like a quartet, trio, or duo or are pushed toward the larger ensembles like the full-orchestra setting. In most areas of the U.S., universities are one of the primary places where this type of chamber music receives regular attention. Having more ensembles that encompass players from multiple institutions can help keep the art form strong and communities collaborating.
I appreciate the ensemble creating a link through the theme even if each piece wasn’t dedicated to the exact same topic. My favorite piece included is Jonathan Newman’s Concertino for Flute Solo, Chamber Winds, and Piano. Personally, I always gravitate to Newman’s works as they never disappoint.
The recording was completed and produced by founder Meerenai Shim with her studio Aerocade Music. Shim has a deep personal understanding of how to record for winds unique to someone who has played a wind instrument for much of her life. The balance and clarity are stellar from beginning to end. I look forward to hearing the next release from the Chamber Winds of South Dakota. Natalie Szabo
