San Jose Wind Symphony

The San Jose Wind Symphony (SJWS) is a distinguished wind ensemble based in San Jose, California, recognized as the West Coast's premier wind symphony. The organization is renowned for its commitment to delivering high-quality musical performances to a diverse audience, contributing significantly to the cultural tapestry of the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond. Founded in September 1958 by Darrell Johnston, an Eastman School of Music alumnus who studied under the esteemed Frederick Fennell—often referred to as the father of the modern wind ensemble—SJWS has established itself as a vital component of the Bay Area's performing arts scene. Johnston's vision and dedication laid the foundation for a musical institution that has thrived for over six decades. The symphony's repertoire spans a wide range of styles, encompassing contemporary, classical, and popular works for wind ensemble or symphonic band. SJWS's mission extends beyond performance; it is dedicated to enhancing the wind ensemble experience in the 21st century. This is achieved through commissioning new works and providing a platform for non-professional musicians to showcase their talents at an exceptionally high level. Throughout its history, SJWS has garnered a global reputation for its entertaining programs and exceptional musicianship. The group has been invited to perform at various conferences and festivals across the western United States, including cities like Long Beach, Fresno, San Luis Obispo, Santa Rosa, Portland, and Seattle. International tours have taken SJWS to European audiences with memorable performances in Ireland, Switzerland, and Austria. A landmark moment in the symphony's history was its selection to perform at the prestigious Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic in Chicago in December 2009. Out of 177 applicants worldwide, SJWS was one of only 31 groups chosen, marking it as the only ensemble from California that year and only the second Californian adult band to be accepted in the Clinic's 63-year history at that time. In July 2015, the Wind Symphony featured at the World Association for Symphonic Bands and Ensembles (WASBE) biennial conference, held in San Jose. The performance received high acclaim, with WASBE president William V. Johnson praising it as "nothing short of stunning." One of SJWS's most prestigious accolades is the Sudler Silver Scroll, awarded by the John Philip Sousa Foundation in 1998. This honor is the highest national recognition a community band can receive, acknowledging bands that have consistently demonstrated excellence and significantly contributed to their local communities' cultural and musical life. After Darrell Johnston announced his decision to step down from active leadership in 2001, a nationwide search led to the appointment of Dr. Edward C. Harris as the Music and Artistic Director in 2002. Dr. Harris, the second conductor in the history of SJWS, has upheld and advanced the symphony's tradition of performance excellence. Comprising approximately 55 woodwind, brass, and percussion performers, SJWS is an all-volunteer ensemble. Despite most members having day jobs in the demanding Silicon Valley, the symphony maintains a high level of musicianship, rehearsing once a week for two and a half hours, with a typical concert requiring six weeks of preparation. The San Jose Wind Symphony continues to play a significant role in the local community, inspiring audiences and fostering a love for wind ensemble music. Its dedication to musical excellence and community engagement makes it a treasured institution in the world of symphonic bands.