Lights dimming in Clowes Memorial Hall signify the beginning of a gripping musical performance.

On Oct. 21, the Butler University Wind Ensemble delivered a moving concert filled with colorful pieces vastly different in nature, reminding the audience why music is such a beautiful art form.

The program began with a composition called “Catstravaganza,” written by Kyle Wernke, a Butler student currently completing his master’s of music degree in orchestral conducting.

The piece was a perfect opener. It was enthralling and creative, utilizing a whistle, trumpet mutes and the glockenspiel.

The theme throughout the piece signified the playful nature of cats, along with their cute and cuddly sides.

The rest of the program was very diverse and appealing.

Loud, attention-grabbing pieces like  the “Prologue” movement in Joseph Turrin’s “Chronicles” and “The Kings of France” Movement III of Norman Dello Joio’s “Scenes from the Louvre” bolstered the performance.

In contrast, works like the “Lamentation” movement from “Chronicles” and “The Nativity Paintings” from “Scenes from the Louvre” were beautiful and legato, their slower tempos and melodies bringing a sense of peace and calm to the audience.

This concert contained some surprises as well.

“English Dances,” an assorted movement composition that opened the second half, held both spectrums of musical style, from allegro to legato.

Malcolm Arnold, the piece’s composer, has created 132 film scores including “Whistle Down the Wind,” which could be why this particular piece felt like a time machine transporting the listener right to the middle of the Netherfield Ball in Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice.”

Traces of “Star Wars” and “Harry Potter” were found in “52nd St. Chorale.”

In the performance “If Ever Two Were One,” most of the Wind Ensemble exited the stage, leaving a small ensemble composed of 12 musicians.

The piece was the most moving on the program and marked the debut performance of this arrangement.

Meaghan Sands, an Anderson University graduate in vocal performance, added to the emotional draw of this song with her stunning soprano voice, in tune and balanced perfectly with the ensemble.

Overall, the program was enticing in all aspects.

The ensemble performed flawlessly, the conducting was fun to watch and the outside soloists were superb in every measure they sang or played.

A commendable concert for sure, and the Wind Ensemble is recommended for all who enjoy music.