Symphonic Wind Ensemble

About the Ensemble

The Symphonic Wind Ensemble is the premiere instrumental group on campus. Each member is auditioned for entry. The band performs regular concerts on and off campus. 

While members of the UST Bands study and perform standard and contemporary band music as well as transcriptions of other musical genres, it is dedicated to bringing new literature to the band repertoire. Each year, the Symphonic Wind Ensemble commissions and premieres new music by nationally and internationally renowned composers. Since 1991, the UST Symphonic Wind Ensemble has commissioned and premiered more than 50 new works for band. This music is being recorded for commercial distribution, and Volume I "Road to the Stars" appears on the Innova record label.

The UST Symphonic Wind Ensemble has performed highly acclaimed concerts before the Minnesota Music Educators Association (1997, 2000, 2006), the College Band Directors National Conference North Central Division (2000, 2008) and the Music Educators National Conference National Biennial Conference (2002). The UST Bands have toured throughout the United States and abroad, having performed in venues such as Eugene Goosens Hall and Town Hall (Australia) and the national theaters of Mexico, Cuba, Costa Rica, Japan and China.  Live national radio broadcasts include appearances on National Public Radio (U.S.), IMER (National Mexican Radio) and the Australia Broadcast Company.

Meet the Director

The Symphonic Wind Ensemble is directed by Dr. Matthew George.

Auditions

Auditions for the Symphonic Wind Ensemble are held on arrival weekend each fall.