Commissioning Project
Beginning in 2000, the Sacred Winds Ensemble initiated its highly successful commissioning project. The purpose of the project is to assist in the development and performance of music for biblical edification by commissioning musical compositions and related projects based on Christian concepts and themes.
The breadth and depth of the ensemble’s commissions is impressive including works written for string orchestra, choir, various chamber music instrumentations, and wind ensemble.
It is the intention of the commissioning project to support both established composers as well as promising young composers of tomorrow. The use of notable composers who accept Sacred Winds commissions adds deep credibility to the project while the employment of new composers encourages interest in this genre as well as creating a uniquely supportive environment for experimentation. The projects repertoire currently consists of the following works:
Musical Compositions:

Voyage of Discovery by Jody J. Nagel (2000)
Scored for wind ensemble (featured on In Christ Alone album)
When I in Awesome Wonder by J. Daniel Jenkins (2001)
Scored for wind ensemble
My Tribute by J. Daniel Jenkins (2002)
Scored for two trumpet soloists and wind ensemble
Just A Closer Walk with Thee by John Vander Gheynst (2003)
Scored for “Dixieland” Quintet and wind ensemble (featured on In Christ Alone album)
Give Me Jesus setting by Barry Milner (2003)
Scored for soprano, mezzo-soprano, and tenor soloists, cello, and woodwind ensemble
In The Garden by Kimberly K. Archer (2003)
Scored for soprano, alto, tenor, and bass soloists and wind ensemble
Wachet Auf by J. Daniel Jenkins (2003)
Scored for wind ensemble
Hallowed setting by Barry Milner (2004)
Scored for soprano and string orchestra
I Know Who Holds Tomorrow by Craig Biondi (2004)
Scored for two sopranos, wind ensemble, and string compliment
My Jesus, I Love Thee by Owen Griffin (2004)
Scored for SATB choir, piano, and string orchestra
Triad Fanfare by John Vander Gheynst (2005)
Scored for brass, percussion, and piano
Untitled Hymn setting by Barry Milner (2005)
Scored for soprano, violin, and woodwind ensemble
Praise to the Lord by Owen Griffin (2006)
Scored for soprano, piano, and wind ensemble
Unending Stream of Life by David Maslanka (2007)
Scored for wind ensemble (featured on In Christ Alone album)
O Great God setting by Barry Milner (2010)
Scored for soprano, tenor, piano, and string quintet
All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name by Barry Milner (2014)
Scored for wind ensemble (featured on In Christ Alone album)
Mighty Fortress Fanfare by Scott Boerma (2017)
Scored for brass and percussion
Visual Commissions:
October produced by Wes Shirley (2002)
A video montage depicting the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ
The Samaritan Woman by Caroline Roll (2003)
Charcoal sketches of John 4
“I am impressed that the group is not satisfied with merely playing the standard repertoire. You seem to realize that creativity should be very much a part of our identity and duty as Christians, as we reflect the image of the Creator Himself.”
Thomas W. Bolton, Ph.D.
Professor of Music
The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
Past President, Baptist Church Music Conference