Symphonic Wind Ensemble and Concert Band

Whether you are an aspiring performer, music educator, or simply looking to continue playing your instrument, the primary goal of all of our performing ensembles is to strive for the highest performance standards while maintaining a welcoming environment. We have ensembles for musicians at all levels.

Symphonic Wind Ensemble Live Performance Recordings

California by David Maslanka

Paris Sketches IV. Les Halles by Martin Ellerby

Shenandoah by Omar Thomas

Symphonic Metamorphosis I. Allegro by Paul Hindemith/Wilson

Three Dance Episodes from On The Town I. The Great Lover by Leonard Bernstein/Lavender

Urban Light by James David

Symphonic Wind Ensemble on stage from diagonal angle

 
 

Andy Collinsworth Headshot

 
 
 
Dr. Andy Collinsworth, Director of Bands
(707) 664-4154

 

 

Symphonic Wind Ensemble

Course Information: MUS 327 Symphonic Wind Ensemble, 1 unit of credit

Meeting Dates: Tuesday and Thursdays 4:00-5:45 pm in GMC 1028

Description: The Symphonic Wind Ensemble is comprised of the finest wind, brass, and percussion students at the university. Under the direction of Dr. Andy Collinsworth, the Symphonic Wind Ensemble embraces a diverse array of wind band literature, ranging from the core repertoire to the newest works from contemporary composers. The Symphonic Wind Ensemble performs frequently throughout the year in Weill Hall, and on tour at locations throughout California. The ensemble performed at the prestigious 2018 Western Division CBDNA Conference.

Participation: Membership in the SWE is by audition, and is open to all students regardless of major, and members of the community. Wind, brass, and percussion majors focusing on classical performance and/or instrumental music education are required to participate in either the Symphonic Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, or Symphony Orchestra every semester while in residence at SSU. Students may participate in more than one ensemble. 

Auditions: Ensemble Placement Auditions will be held August 22-23 at the Green Music Center. Access audition materials and schedule and audition time.

Instruments: A limited number of university-owned instruments are available to students free of charge. To request an instrument, please contact Music Librarian Sierra Smith.

 

2023-2024 SWE Concert Dates

Sat. September 23, 2023        Sonoma Wind Ensemble Pops on the Lawn for GMC Gala  

TBA                                          Weill Hall, Trione Courtyard

Wed. September 27, 2023      Sonoma Wind Ensemble with guest Robin Seletsky, Klezmer Clarinet soloist

7:30pm                                     Schroeder Hall

Fri. October 20, 2023              Sonoma Chamber Wind Ensemble

7:30 pm                                     Schroeder Hall

Tues. December 12, 2023       Sonoma Wind Ensemble with guest ensemble TBA

7:30pm                                      Weill Hall

March 13–15, 2024                  Sonoma Invitational Wind Band and Orchestra Festival

All Day                                      Weill Hall

Fri. April 12, 2024                    Sonoma Chamber Wind Ensemble

7:30pm                                      Schroeder Hall

Sat. May 4, 2024                      Sonoma Wind Ensemble with guest ensemble TBA

7:30pm                                      Weill Hall

 

Concert Band

Overhead close up on section of concert band

Course Information: MUS 227 Concert Band, 1 unit of credit

Meeting Dates: Mondays and Wednesdays 4:00-5:30 pm in GMC 1028

Description: The Concert Band emphasizes that music-making is a lifelong activity, and provides students of all ability levels with opportunities for continued musical growth through the careful selection of appropriate repertoire. The ensemble is led by Dr. Andy Collinsworth and occasionally assisted by senior music education majors, creating a unique learning environment. The Concert Band typically performs two concerts per semester.

Participation: Membership is open to all students regardless of major, and members of the community. No audition is required. Students may sign up and show up at the first rehearsal. 

Instruments: A limited number of university-owned instruments are available to students free of charge. To request an instrument, please contact Music Librarian, Sierra Smith.

 

2023-2024 Concert Band Dates

Mon. October 2, 2023             Concert Band with guest ensemble TBA 

7:30 pm                                    Weill Hall

Mon. December 11, 2023       Concert Performance with NOMA Winds

7:30 pm                                    Weill Hall

Mon. March 11, 2024               Concert Band with guest ensemble TBA

7:30 pm                                     Weill Hall

Wed. May 1                              Concert Band with guest ensemble TBA

7:30 pm                                     Weill Hall