Wind Ensemble

The bands at BSU have a long-standing tradition and are recognized throughout Minnesota as one of the finest programs in the region. The Wind Ensemble is the select wind band at Bemidji State University. Its repertoire includes many of the exciting contemporary wind band pieces as well as twentieth century concert band classics.

The Chamber Winds is a smaller ensemble comprised of members from the Wind Ensemble and performs music specifically written for the chamber wind ensemble. Each of the Wind Ensemble’s concerts includes selections from both the Wind Ensemble and Chamber Winds.

The Wind Ensemble is open to all BSU students and rehearses three days per week. In addition to regularly programmed campus concerts, the Wind Ensemble hosts the Northern Minnesota Honor Band, an annual band festival for many of the top high school musicians Minnesota.

The ensemble takes an annual band tour with its concerts performed at many of the major high school music programs in the area. Recent tours include performances in Winnipeg and Minneapolis.

Throughout its history the Wind Ensemble has worked with many of the major conductors in America. Recent guest conductors include Dr. Wesley Broadnax, assistant director of bands at Michigan State University and Mr. Mark Kelly, director of bands emeritus at Bowling Green State University.