West Michigan Concert Winds

The West Michigan Concert Winds (WMCW) is a distinguished community band founded in the fall of 1979 by a group of volunteer music educators and local residents passionate about performing exceptional instrumental music within the community. Celebrating its 40th anniversary, the WMCW has established itself as one of the oldest and largest adult community bands in the state of Michigan. In collaboration with Muskegon Community College, the WMCW has been an integral part of the cultural and musical landscape of Muskegon County, working closely with community music organizations across the Midwest and supporting high school music programs in Muskegon, Ottawa, and Newaygo counties. The band's commitment to musical excellence and community engagement is evident through its sponsorship of competitive scholarships. Over the past two decades, the WMCW has awarded more than 20 scholarships to exceptional wind and percussion players from area schools, with many recipients featured as soloists in the band's annual Winners & WINDS concert. The WMCW's influence extends beyond local performances. The band has been a featured ensemble at the annual Association of Concert Bands (ACB) Convention and hosted the 2011 ACB convention in Muskegon. The band has also performed at prestigious venues such as Chicago's Symphony Hall in 2015 and New York's Carnegie Hall in 2016. Recognition of the WMCW's dedication to musical excellence came in 2005 when the John Philip Sousa Foundation honored the band with the Sudler Silver Scroll Award. This award is North America's most prestigious accolade for community concert bands and reflects the WMCW's significant role in enriching the cultural and musical environment of its community. As the West Michigan Concert Winds continues to celebrate its history and achievements, it remains a beacon for the arts, inspiring musicians and audiences alike with its dedication to the power of music.