Wind Symphony
Overview
The Wind Symphony is a training ensemble for advanced woodwind, brass, and percussion students who are ready to grow as well-rounded musicians and prepare for the full orchestral experience. Through the audition process, the most advanced wind and percussion players may be placed directly into the Symphonic Orchestra, while others will first participate in the Wind Symphony to build the skills needed for future orchestral success.
All Wind Symphony members also perform with the Lakeland Philharmonia, offering many their first opportunity to play in a full orchestra. To support this transition, the Wind Symphony conductor provides additional rehearsal time focused on Philharmonia repertoire, ensuring students are confident and well-prepared before joining the string section in combined rehearsals.
In this chamber-style setting, students develop tone, technique, and ensemble sensitivity while exploring a rich variety of wind literature. The ensemble also emphasizes leadership, musical expression, and collaboration. Rehearsals are designed to be impactful and rewarding, helping students strengthen both their musicianship and their confidence. While many high school students join after their fall marching band season, the ensemble is open to all qualified players seeking a focused and supportive environment to deepen their training.
Rehearsal Info
DURATION
DAY/TIME
CONDUCTOR
Tuesdays 6:45-8:30pm
September - May
PERFORMANCES: Members perform in Lakeland Youth Symphony’s Winter and Spring Concerts and may participate in additional outreach performances, special events, and educational trips throughout the year. Additionally, members have the opportunity to compete in the Jr. & Sr. Concerto Competition.
Audition Info
All students audition annually. Auditions are used for ensemble placement and help ensure that each student is challenged appropriately. With multiple ensemble levels, Lakeland Youth Symphony strives to provide meaningful musical opportunities for students across a wide range of ages and experience levels.
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.
If you do not already have a solo piece ready, feel free to choose a selection from our folder:
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 use a wider range of their instrument.
Ready to audition? Click below to access the audition form, audition dates, and registration information.
Gallery
FAQ
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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.
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This program is open to middle and high school wind, brass, and percussion students at an intermediate to advanced skill level.
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The ensemble features woodwinds (flutes, clarinets, oboes, bassoons, saxophones), brass (trumpets, trombones, French horns, tubas), and percussion.
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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.
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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!
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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.
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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.