Ensembles
Bands
Symphonic Wind Ensemble
The Symphonic Wind Ensemble is the premiere performing ensemble of The University of Montana Band Program. The ensemble performs repertoire from the cutting edge of contemporary composition to the standard repertoire of the wind band medium. The ensemble incorporates the wind ensemble concept of one person per part, which emphasizes the importance of each individual’s contribution. Positions in the ensemble are open to all university students, regardless of major, and are determined by auditions held at the beginning of each semester. The ensemble maintains an active performance schedule including both on-campus concerts and an annual spring tour. Since 1994 the group has performed for major conferences including the Northwest MENC (Spokane in 2001 and Bellevue in 2005), and the College Band Directors National Associations Western/Northwestern Regional Conference in Reno, Nevada (1996 & 2006). The ensemble also hosts a Concert Band Festival which each year features a guest artist. Featured artist have included Allen Vizzutti, James Walker, Harvey Phillips, Thomas Bacon, Patrick Sheridan, Joe Burgstaller, Tom Ashworth, John Sampen, Lawrie Bloom, Anthony Averay, Brian Bowman, Wiff Rudd, Russell Peterson, Jeff Nelsen, and others.