Awarded the Sudler Silver Scroll from the John Philip Sousa Foundation for community band excellence
About Us
The East Winds Symphonic Band is an award-winning band comprised of a diverse group of musicians of all ages. Most musicians reside in the east-suburban communities of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania yet quite a few members travel from the greater Pittsburgh region. Musicians come from all walks of life and professions, sharing a common interest in instrumental music and a desire to continue playing their band instruments. Experience levels vary, but most have experience playing in high school, college, military, or professional organizations.
The band performs a wide variety of repertoire that includes serious wind ensemble music, classic band literature, and a mix of styles including but not limited to Dixieland, Broadway show medleys, movie soundtracks and marches.
The band has performed at dozens of different venues in western Pennsylvania including: Ligonier, Monroeville, McKeesport, Upper St. Clair, Crafton, Sewickley, Forest Hills, Saxonburg, Zelienople, and Twin Lakes Park. Frequently the band performs as the final performance for the Bach, Beethoven, and Brunch series in Pittsburgh’s Mellon Park. An annual performance at Rodef Shalom in Pittsburgh has been part of the band’s tradition since the band was founded. As a featured band, East Winds Symphonic Band has performed in three national conventions for the Association of Concert Bands in Corning, New York; Muskegon, Michigan; and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The band has also performed several times at the Chautauqua Institute as part of the Sunday series in Chautauqua, New York. In June 2019, the band traveled to Ireland for three performances.
Membership is open to anyone with instrumental experience. An audition is not required, however, acceptance is subject to ensemble performance approval by the director. New members often share a similar story, they were active with their music and enjoyed playing in their high school or college bands but haven’t had their instruments out of the case lately. Everyone is given an opportunity to clear the cobwebs and rust from their instruments, and regain the pleasure and camaraderie of ensemble musical performance.
The East Winds has some affiliated smaller ensembles, including a saxophone ensemble. These groups often perform on EWSB programs and independently at other venues.
Rehearsals are held Monday evenings from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at St John’s Cathedral Center in Munhall, PA. Concert performances occur about eight to ten times throughout the year at various locations.
If you are interested in becoming a member, or would like to inquire about contracting the band to perform for your event, please contact us.
The East Winds Symphonic Band Association is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization, governed by a board of directors.