THE BAND

Artistic Vision

Minnesota Winds embraces the rich history and tradition of the concert band art form, celebrates the diverse range of voices creating new band music today, and pushes the boundaries of our genre with innovative commissions and unique concert experiences.

We endeavor to create an inclusive artistic space that welcomes musicians, composers, students, and audiences from all backgrounds to connect and engage with the music and with each other.

KATHERINE BERGMAN,
CO-FOUNDER & ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

Musicians

State Fair Guest Conductor, Manny Laureano

Manny is the principal trumpet with the Minnesota Orchestra. He is in great demand as a soloist, clinician, and conductor with bands and orchestras throughout the region. Manny and his wife, Claudette, served as co-artistic directors of the Minnesota Youth Symphonies for 32 years, and Manny is entering his eleventh season as music director of the Bloomington Symphony Orchestra.

He holds a bachelor’s degree from the Juilliard School of Music as well as a second degree black belt in Kenpo. Manny first started playing the trumpet in junior high band in east Harlem in New York City.

State Fair Ensemble Musicians

  • Roma Duncan, flute

  • Carrie Vecchione, oboe

  • Jennifer Gerth, clarinet

  • Karrin Meffert-Nelson, clarinet

  • Fei Xie, bassoon

  • Alexandra Berndt, bassoon

  • Patrick Pridemore, French horn

  • Alexander Henton, French horn

  • Lynn Erickson, trumpet

  • Phillip Ostrander, trombone

  • Eri Isomura, percussion

About the Ensemble

At this early stage, Minnesota Winds is hiring musicians concert-by-concert.

Our vision is to hold auditions in advance of the first full season. If you are interested in information about auditions, please sign up below and email your resume to katherine@minnesotawinds.org.