The Wind Ensemble will tour Beijing and Shanghai in May, 2015. Concert program will feature commissioned premieres by W&M Composer Brian Hulse and solo performances by W&M Trumpet Professor David Vonderheide (Principal Trumpet, Virginia Symphony). Also on the program will be works by Holst, Vaughan Williams, and Gabrieli.
The William and Mary Wind Ensemble performs Symphonic Dances from West Side Story this Sunday, 12/8 at 4pm in PBK Hall. Students in the Wind Ensemble have been documenting their preparatory experience thus far in these web video vignettes:
The William and Mary Wind Ensemble’s annual Winter Concert features the fantastic Symphonic Dances from West Side Story by Bernstein. This special version of the work was created expressly for the US Marine Band by celebrated arranger Paul Lavender.
Sunday, December 8th
4pm Phi Beta Kappa Memorial Hall
Free for Students and Children under 12
$5 General Admission
$3 Seniors
My name is Julia, and I’m a Biology major, Chemistry minor, currently interviewing for medical school next year. I’ve played French horn in the Wind Ensemble for four years, and I’ve been the Treasurer for two. Here are nine lessons I’ve learned from my time with the Wind Ensemble:
1. “When you play, it sounds lovely and beautiful, like the wind!” Sometimes, in my constant effort to sound better, I forget how far I’ve come. It took a whimsical 4th grader to remind me that all the hard work I’ve put in has built up to this point.
2. Giving back to the community is one of my favorite aspects of playing. Whether teaching elementary school kids (like the author of the quote in #1) about the importance of practicing, or sharing chamber music with elderly community members, musical volunteer work is a delightful way to make a difference.
3. In rehearsal, it’s better to make a loud mistake than not play at all. I used to be afraid that everyone would judge me for playing badly, but really, everyone makes mistakes. We’re all hoping for the best, so mistakes are no reason to be upset.
4. Even professionals have band drama. I have proof! Band drama is a part of life, and even though it’s painful sometimes, it makes for an interesting ride.
5. The weirdest things happen at band dinner. Have you ever engaged in a 3-way banana phone conversation? No? Go to band dinner.
6. I have become a tuning snob. In rehearsal, I’m perpetually conscious of the way my sound blends with the sounds around me. In church, I hold my breath when the tuning is off. Tuning is a great skill to have, but it can be a curse in the real world.
7. Band sports are more about the attitude than the sports themselves. Playing with the underdog team has taught me to be a graceful loser and optimistic cheerleader. A smile goes a long way when the team is discouraged.
8. Laughing while playing is impossible. I learned this lesson the hard way, when the United States Air Force Heritage Band played with us. Playing with them was such a joy, in more ways than expected. Also of note is that crying while playing is impossible. I’m so scared that this is going to be a problem for my final band concert in the spring.
9. Not everyone is lucky enough to have such a special network of friends. Don’t forget to cherish your time with these silly people, appreciate the music we’re playing, and for goodness’ sake, SMILE.
