Wind Symphony

Overview

The Wind Symphony gives students the opportunity to learn their instruments outside the typical marching band context. In smaller chamber settings, winds/ brass/ percussion students have solo performances and play with the Lakeland Philharmonia. Lakeland Youth Symphony provides an educational, compassionate environment for students to expand their musicality and grow their friendships, as well as leadership skills.

The Wind Symphony helps young musicians build the skills they need to thrive in a full orchestra. Students focus on tone, blend, rhythm, and ensemble playing, so when they move up, they’re ready to shine in a full orchestral setting!

With busy schedules being the norm for students at this age, each rehearsal in the Wind Symphony is designed to be both impactful and rewarding. Commitment to the ensemble is essential, and those who show dedication will have opportunities to step into leadership roles. This symphony challenges students to refine their musical abilities, explore artistic expression, and perform inspiring repertoire from the rich tradition of wind ensemble music.

Rehearsal Info

DAY/TIME

DURATION

September - May

LOCATION

Tuesdays 6:45-8:30pm

CONDUCTOR

TUITION

$525

Brooklawn Middle School
250 Beachwood Rd
Parsippany, NJ 07054

PERFORMANCES: Winter Concert and Spring Concert. Additional outreach performances or field trips are available throughout the year. Opportunity to compete in Jr. & Sr. Concerto competition!

Audition Info

Lakeland Youth Symphony will never turn anyone away based on audition. With our five levels of orchestras, we seek to provide a challenging and educational experience for all.

Audition Requirements: Woodwinds & Brass

Scales:

2 octave chromatic scale – ascending and descending
NOTE: Play only the LAST chromatic scale on the scale sheet

Major scales: C, F, Bb, Eb, G, D, A
Woodwinds: two octaves, three when possible
Brass: two octaves, one when not possible

Solo Piece:

One solo piece chosen by the student. The piece should demonstrate your best ability at the moment. Preferably, it should show good fingering technique, control over the sound, the ability to play different dynamics, and using a wider range of your instruments.

Prepared Excerpt:

Short excerpt found here
NOTE: Prepare only the the section marked in RED.

Audition Requirements: Percussion

Solo Piece:

Timpani: One piece from the standard repertoire for the Timpani. Bring a copy for the adjudicator.

Snare Drum: One piece from the standard repertoire for the Snare Drum (etudes acceptable). Bring a copy for the adjudicator.

Sight Reading:

Be prepared for sight reading and to play a closed and/or open roll on the snare drum at various dynamics.

Audition Requirements: Harp

Solo Piece:

Two contrasting works chosen by the candidate. The pieces should demonstrate your best ability at the moment. Preferably, they should show good fingering technique, control over the sound, the ability to play different dynamics, and using a wider range of your instruments.

New Student Auditions*

If you would like to audition mid-season please contact us.

Gallery

FAQ

  • The Wind Symphony is an advanced-level ensemble for talented young musicians who play woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. It offers students the opportunity to develop their skills and perform exceptional wind repertoire.

  • This program is open to middle and high school wind, brass, and percussion students at an intermediate to advanced skill level.

  • The ensemble features woodwinds (flutes, clarinets, oboes, bassoons, saxophones), brass (trumpets, trombones, French horns, tubas), and percussion.

  • The Wind Symphony performs a wide variety of advanced wind ensemble repertoire, showcasing both classic and contemporary works designed to challenge and inspire young musicians.

  • We have many students who may join us after the marching band season is over before the December concert if necessary. For specific scheduling questions, please send an email to info@lakelandyouthsymphony.org.

    We encourage your child to audition anyway, and make a decision at that point!

  • Under the guidance of our instructor, Ken Adessa, who has extensive experience directing marching bands, this youth wind symphony offers students the opportunity to explore a wide range of musical styles. It also provides solo performance chances that are often not available in traditional concert or marching bands.

  • For inquiries about the Lakeland Youth Symphony or the audition process, you can contact the Lakeland Youth Symphony at 973-402-6010 or email info@lakelandyouthsymphony.org.