Who can participate?

Any musician from high school age and up is welcome to participate according to the needs of the ensemble.

What do you need for the ensemble?

The Bay Area Summer Music Wind Ensemble is a typical concert band. This means we need flutes, oboes (and English Horn), clarinets  (Eb, Bb, and Bass), bassoons, French Horns, trumpets, trombones, euphoniums (baritones), tubas and percussion. On a case by case basis, harp and piano may also be needed. Select string parts may be available (see below).

I'm a string player. Is there any way I can participate?

The short answer for this right now, unfortunately, is no. The long answer is that every once and a while there is a string bass part included in band music, and also other parts (violin, viola, cello, bass) in wind chamber music. This being the case, if you are a string player please still contact us and we will hopefully have a spot for you. Also, we hope to expand this program in the future to include an orchestral aspect, so please keep your eyes on this website and let us know if you'd be interested!

Is it really free to participate? How is that possible? Are there any charges associated with the festival?

Yes, it really is free! An important aspect to this program is accessibility, especially in adverse economic times.  The arts belong to all, and it is our strong belief that those who wish to take part should not be discouraged by money issues. The festival functions on the goodwill of those who donate their time and contribute their talents for little to no compensation. The only expenses you will incur include any travel, housing, or food, as well as the possibility of Bay Area Summer Music related merchandise (shirts, mugs, recordings, etc.). This all, of course, is of your own free will.

I still would like to know how this is being funded...

Frankly, so would we. Currently, we are essentially working on a $0 budget and all aspects of the festival are being supported on either a volunteer basis, through individual contribution, or by the occasional institutional grant (much thanks here to the University of Illinois for generously providing for Dr. George's residency). Those involved in the program are currently researching non-profit status for Bay Area Summer Music so any donation will hopefully soon be tax deductible.

This all is a great idea. How can I help?

We're glad you asked! Click on the "Volunteer" link in the menu and take a look at what we have posted there. If you're willing, monetary donations are appreciated and would help ensure the continuation of the festival. Contributions are as of now NOT tax deductible, but we're working on that (if you know something about non-profit organizations, we'd love to hear from you!)