Two ensembles, limitless creativity.
Director: Dr. Robert Taylor
The UBC Bands program includes two ensembles: Symphonic Wind Ensemble and Concert Winds.
Open to any student in any major field of study, both ensembles are distinguished by their high level of performance, creative thematic programming, and commitment to contemporary music through commissions, premieres, and composer residencies.
Students in the UBC Bands perform outstanding wind repertoire, from traditional masterworks to new music for groups varying in size from chamber ensemble to full band.
WATCH: The UBC Symphonic Winds play Leonard Bernstein’s “Overture To Candide”
Enter stage right
The UBC Bands rehearse and perform in the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts and produce six or more concerts per year, including an annual performance tour.
The ensemble experience is designed with many goals:
- To encourage each individual’s artistic and technical musical development
- To enhance the study and practices encouraged in private studio lessons
- To apply historical and theoretical knowledge in the development of expression and interpretation
- To prepare students for future careers as performers, teachers, and scholars
- To provide an outlet for musical expression and creativity
WATCH: The UBC Symphonic Wind Ensemble performs David Maslanka’s Symphony No. 4
Professional experience, course credit
Ensemble courses may be taken and repeated for credit, as stipulated by your Faculty.
MUSC 150a/550a
Comprised of the most outstanding wind and percussion students in the School of Music. The group is dedicated to the performance of the finest wind repertoire, regardless of the period or size of the ensemble. Although many members are music majors, students studying in other fields sometimes qualify for participation.
In addition, many students rotate between placements in the Symphonic Wind Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra throughout the season, which provides exposure to the full complement of repertoire for winds and the opportunity to work with multiple conductors.
MUSC 150c/550c
Concert Winds is comprised of music majors as well as talented students from many other disciplines.
UBC Concert Winds provides the opportunity to perform challenging repertoire in an outstanding concert band.
Membership is open to all students regardless of major, and university instruments are available for use. Concert Winds meets in UBC’s beautiful Chan Centre. No-stress auditions are held during the first week of classes.
