Who is eligible to join the Illinois Wesleyan University Wind Ensemble?
All students of the University are eligible by audition and permission of the instructor.

What is the Wind Ensemble audition process?
The Wind Ensemble's audition process consists of a band excerpt supplied by the conductor and available prior to the audition on this page, two minutes of a solo selected by the student, and sight-reading.

When are auditions?
Auditions take place during the first week of classes in the fall

Must students re-audition once they are in the Wind Ensemble?
Yes.  Second-semester auditions are held for most instruments.  These consist of two minutes of a prepared piece (usually from the previous semester).  Memorization of this piece is not required, but it is encouraged.

If I don't have an instrument, can I get one to play in the Wind Ensemble?
Yes.  Please contact Ed Risinger about instrument availability and access.

Is it possible to perform in both the Illinois Wesleyan Civic Orchestra and the Wind Ensemble?
Yes.  Some instruments such as brass, percussion and winds are generally needed by both the Wind Ensemble and the Civic Orchestra.  Those proficient in an instrument used in both ensembles may audition for both, and if accepted there is no scheduling conflict between the Illinois Wesleyan Civic Orchestra and the Wind Ensemble.  Multi-talented individuals who are proficient in multiple instruments may also participate in both, pending acceptance by audition.

Is it possible to perform in both the Symphonic Winds and the Wind Ensemble?
(Need SW rehearsal times)

Can I perform a solo with the Wind Ensemble?
No.  The Wind Ensemble does not perform alongside student soloists, however the School of Music hosts the Henry Charles Memorial Concerto-Aria competition annually in which student soloists are selected via multiple auditions to perform alongside the Illinois Wesleyan Civic Orchestra.  These auditions are held in November and the winners of the competition perform their solos with the Orchestra in the following February.

How many concerts does the Wind Ensemble perform each year?
Four to five concerts per year.  Additionally, the Wind Ensemble usually goes on a tour during the Spring semester.

When and where does the Wind Ensemble rehearse?
Rehearsals take place in Room 167 of the School of Music (Presser Hall).  The Wind Ensemble rehearses Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 12:30PM to 1:50PM.