WS Chronicle

SPECIAL TO THE CHRONICLE

The Piedmont Wind Symphony (PWS) announces the expansion of its Wachovia Winds youth ensemble program to include the Wachovia Winds Youth Symphonic Band.

The top-tier, highly competitive ensemble was developed to meet the need of ever-increasing interest in youth music ensembles.

Wachovia Winds youth ensembles will be offering a unique experience to serious music students, where they will receive expert instruction and appealing performance opportunities.

The development reflects the significant growth and change that has occurred in PWS since Maestro Matthew Troy became the music director. Troy is recognized across the country to have a significant background in music education and arts advocacy for young people.

The new top-tier Youth Symphonic Band will be an auditioned group that brings together the best wind, brass and percussion students in the Triad. It will be led by Artistic Director Danny Green and 2016 Grammy Award Winning Music Educator Phillip Riggs, who was also a co-founder of the group.

The intermediate group is going to be led by Patricia Hughes Ball, who is currently the band director at West Forsyth High School.

Of this expansion Troy said, “I am so excited to build on the incredible success of the Wachovia Winds and help reach more of the youth of our community, with a meaningful and exciting musical experience. This speaks to the great work the Piedmont Wind Symphony and the Wachovia Winds have been undertaking to make a significant contribution to the city of arts and innovation.”

Students will be able to easily submit audition videos online. Go to www.wachoviawinds.org for audition requirements or contact Danny Green at wachoviawinds@gmail.com.

The Wachovia Winds was founded 13 years ago to provide young musicians from throughout the community with an opportunity to come together and learn through the experience of an ensemble where quality music could be made, and wholesome fellowship could be enjoyed. The Wachovia Winds has also provided conducting opportunities to several educators throughout the community.

For 27 years the Piedmont Wind Symphony (PWS) has provided excellence in the performance of symphonic music for the Piedmont of North Carolina, continuing this tradition for the 27th season under the leadership of the new music director, Maestro Matthew Troy.

For more information about the Piedmont Wind Symphony, visit www.piedmontwindsymphony.com.