OUR STORY

We’re with the band

Playing our first notes in fifth grade band was the start of something special. Band was more than a club or group, it was a culture and a community. And while it wasn’t always easy—early rehearsals, hauling our instruments to and from school, uncomfortable outfits—band was the class we looked forward to the most.

Yet the culture we created and basked in ended in school. There was no path beyond that. Yes, we stayed in touch with some of our band friends and maybe joined a community band, but for many of us, life moved on, and our instruments were set aside. And our love for band music slowly faded into fond memories.

But what if we could change that?

Welcome to a new possibility. A path where band music is celebrated at the highest levels of musical artistry. A path where audiences experience the rich history of band music and visionary new works of music are created. A path where band students and their teachers have access to professional musicians, composers, and conductors. A path where the vast community of band musicians, past and present, can come together again to celebrate the nostalgia and build a bright future for their art form.

Welcome to the Minnesota Winds!

Music with a mission

Our mission is to connect the band community across Minnesota by engaging students, musicians, and audiences with innovative and inclusive approaches to education, performance, and new music.

Our vision is to embrace the dynamic energy and inclusive culture of school band and bring it to the professional level in a way that celebrates the rich tradition of the concert band art form and builds an exciting future. Join us!

The impact of band

Minnesota Winds sponsored an essay contest inviting Minnesota high school band students to compose essays about what band means to them. It was a privilege to read the heartfelt words shared with us by students across the state.

Each student made the case for why band is important. Band is community and connection, acceptance and a safe place, personal growth and joy. Minnesota Winds exists to give these students and their art form representation on the main stage!

  • Band is more than just a musical ensemble . . . it’s a sanctuary where I express my creativity and feel a sense of belonging within a supportive community.

    —AVA MILLER, Pine Island High School

  • Band can be for everyone . . . in band everyone gets a chance to shine.

    —EMILY ZURN, Kerkhoven Murdock Sunburg High School

  • Band helped me learn that my failures are simply opportunities to get better.

    —AMANDA BOBGAN, Wayzata High School

  • During our band period I have learned to stop worrying about the things that are out of my control and to take control of what I can accomplish.

    —CHLOE ERICKSON, Buffalo High School

  • We can come together with our different backgrounds, personalities, emotions, talents, and ambitions to create art if we intently listen to each other and give each other space to grow.

    —INDIRA SIVARAJ, Elk River High School

  • Band is, without a doubt, the class I look forward to the most.

    —TYLER THESING, Pierz Healy High School