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
Paris Sketches IV. Les Halles by Martin Ellerby
Symphonic Metamorphosis I. Allegro by Paul Hindemith/Wilson
Three Dance Episodes from On The Town I. The Great Lover by Leonard Bernstein/Lavender
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
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