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Despite receiving no formal education in orchestration or conducting, Morton Gould (1913-1996) became one of the most prominent American composers and conductors of the twentieth century. His works have been hailed for their accessibility to the general listener and are included in the standard repertory of bands and orchestras throughout the U.S and Europe. Joseph McLellan wrote in the Washington Post in 1994, "The first thing you notice about the music of composer Morton Gould is how easy it is to enjoy." Well, North Texas audiences will get a chance to do just that, when the Symphony performs Mr. Gould's classic "American Salute," an orchestral arrangement of the folk song "When Johnny Comes Marching Home" that became the most frequently performed 20th century American symphonic work. The two-hour bill also includes other top choices, among them: Steven Bryant's recent work Stampede (2003) is a piece that not only celebrates the "Wild West" but also embraces it. The beautiful composition American Anthem (2001), by Dallas Wind Symphony Composer-in-Residence, John Gibson, intricately weaves themes from our National Anthem into a delicately balanced piece reflecting the spirit of togetherness that existed after the Sept. 11 tragedy in New York City. And Ron Nelson's classic band piece Passacaglia on B-A-C-H (1993) is a homage to J.S. Bach and ultimately made history for Mr. Nelson by helping him to win all three major band composition awards that year.