Wind Symphony
The Wind Symphony represents the finest wind and percussion players at Texas A&M University. The ensemble performs literature that ranges from chamber works of the 16th century to the most recent original compositions for large band.
The Wind Symphony has performed at the Texas Music Educators Association (seven times), the Western International Band Clinic in Seattle, the American Bandmasters Association (including convention host), the College Band Directors National Association Convention (twice), and at the 2010 and 2019 Midwest Clinic in Chicago. In 2008, the Wind Symphony performed in New York City’s Carnegie Hall. Since 1999, seven European concert tours with the Wind Symphony have resulted in performances in Italy, Germany, Ireland, Austria, Czech Republic, Spain and England. The band regularly records each academic year and its series of compact discs recordings are with Mark Recordings of New York. Dr. Timothy Rhea, Director of Bands, has served as conductor of the Wind Symphony since 1995.
Rehearsals
The Wind Symphony (MUSC 280, Section 501) rehearses on Mondays from 6-8 p.m. and Tuesdays/Thursdays from 2:20-3:35 p.m. and is a one-hour credit course.
Listen to the Texas A&M Wind Symphony
The Texas A&M Wind Symphony records regularly each academic year and its series of compact discs recordings are with Mark Custom Recording of New York City.
Listen Now
Audition Information
Membership in the Texas A&M University Wind Symphony is based on a live audition. If you have questions regarding auditioning, you may contact Dr. Rhea.
Membership in all the concert bands is based on a live audition with a band director.
- If you are an incoming student, your audition should be completed BEFORE your new student conference so you can register for the correct class. The afternoon prior to your conference often works best for students traveling to campus.
- If you are a current Texas A&M student, your audition should be completed BEFORE you register for classes so you can register for the correct class.
To audition:
- Fill out the audition form (or you can email Mr. Brandon Laird at [email protected].)
- You will be contacted by the director of the ensemble to set up an audition time at the Music Activities Center.
- For the audition, you will need to select and perform material that includes two contrasting excerpts which exhibit both technical facility and lyrical qualities. Students should prepare approximately two minutes of each style. You will also sight-read a selection.
*Percussion auditions consists of one excerpt each on Snare Drum, Mallet Percussion, and Timpani. You will also sight-read selections on all three instruments as part of the audition.*
You will be auditioning for multiple groups with one audition. Placement is based on openings in each group and audition performance.
To speak with a director by phone, please call our main number, 979.845.3529 and leave a message that includes your name, call back number, instrument played and what ensemble you are interested in. The appropriate director will call you back within two (2) business days.