Student Outreach

Unlike some bands who only allow students to participate in concerto competitions, or host a one-time band camp or clinic (sometimes at a cost of hundreds of dollars), the Metropolitan Winds has always welcomed talented student musicians who look for the opportunity to regularly perform in an ensemble outside of their traditional school setting, as a full-fledged member of the band. Not only do they get to perform exciting music with a new conductor and musician-friends, these students get another opportunity to pursue their passion: making music.

While many of these students have been all-state caliber players, we welcome any mature student who can commit the practice and rehearsal time needed to be a productive member of the ensemble, and can perform the level literature we program. Indeed, by performing with our group, many students have discovered that they can enjoy a “musical” life once they graduate, and some have chosen to become music educators based upon their positive experiences with the group.

We do ask that all student musicians commit to a rehearsal block for a particular concert, just as we ask our adult performers. If the entire year is not possible, plans should be made to commit for an entire semester. Students usually find the spring semester more accommodating to their individual schedules, but are welcome throughout the year.

If a semester is not feasible, then a concert rehearsal block must be set aside. For instance, for the April concert, players must commit to all rehearsals dedicated to preparing that particular program from January to April, and for the June concert, all rehearsals from April to June must be attended. You must arrange your own transport to rehearsal and concert venues.

As with adult performers, we ask that you observe a rehearsal first, to see if you think the group is the right fit for you. Ask your band director or private lesson teacher as well.

There is no limit to the number of talented students that can participate (for one spring concert, we had 11 student musicians).