Bands

Two ensembles, limitless creativity.

Symphonic Wind Ensemble & Concert Winds
Dr. Robert Taylor Director of Bands

The UBC Bands is distinguished by their high level of performance, creative thematic programming, and commitment to contemporary music through commissions, premieres, and composer residencies.

Open to any student in any major field of study, 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.



Enter stage right

The UBC Bands rehearse and perform several times a year in the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts and have also toured many times in North America.

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 with
Robert Taylor, conductor performs Raven Chacon’s American Ledger (No. 1)

Presented in collaboration with the  Chan Centre for the Performing Arts, Morris and Helen Belkin Art Gallery, and the UBC School of Music as part of Soundings: An Exhibition in Five Parts.

Presented with permission by the composer Raven Chacon.


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.


More videos of UBC Bands

with permission from Pecktackular Music www.russellpeck.com 

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