Requires audition.
About
The Case Western Reserve University Symphonic Winds is the university’s principal concert wind ensemble and is open to wind and percussion players from CWRU and the Cleveland Institute of Music, as well as alumni and select community members. Whether you are a music major or simply want to continue performing, Symphonic Winds offers a welcoming and high-level ensemble experience.
The ensemble performs two to three concerts each semester, primarily in a traditional concert band setting. Depending on repertoire and instrumentation needs, select musicians may also be invited to perform in the CWRU Chamber Winds or CWRU Wind Orchestra—smaller, one-player-per-part ensembles that rehearse during the same scheduled time.
Course Documents & Schedule
Please add these dates to your calendar now to avoid future conflicts:
- [Course Syllabus 2026–2027] >>
- [Rehearsal & Performance Schedule 2026–2027] >>
Participation & Placement
Auditions for Wind & Percussion Players
One audition, two ensembles.
All wind and percussion players interested in Symphonic Winds or Symphony Orchestra complete a single audition at the start of the academic year for placement in both ensembles. Spring semester placements are based on the fall audition.
Students wishing to join Symphonic Winds for spring semester only may audition at the beginning of the spring semester.
Following the fall audition:
- All musicians are considered for placement in both ensembles.
- Assignments are based on musical preparation, ensemble balance, and repertoire needs.
- Because orchestral repertoire typically uses one player per part, these positions are limited and reserved for highly prepared performers.
- To provide broader performance opportunities while maintaining excellence in both ensembles, selected players may rotate by semester between Symphonic Winds and Symphony Orchestra.
Ensemble assignments are sent by email before the end of the Drop/Add period.
In select cases, students may be assigned to both ensembles in the same semester. Directors will coordinate schedules and provide registration guidance as needed.
Audition Requirements
Woodwind & Brass Players
Prepare:
- Two excerpts (one technical and one lyrical) that demonstrate technical ability, musicality, and control of your instrument. Each excerpt should not exceed 3–4 minutes.
- Major scales (2–3 octaves where applicable) may also be requested at the director's discretion.
Percussion Players
Prepare:
- One mallet excerpt (four-mallet preferred when applicable)
- One snare drum excerpt
- A timpani excerpt (recommended for student wishing to be considered for timpani assignments throughout the academic year)
- Scales and rudiments may also be requested at the adjudicator's discretion (tempo and rhythm at the preference of the student)
Schedule your Fall 2026 Symphonic Winds audition:
[Schedule your audition here] >>
Registration
Enrollment permission is granted in the Student Information System (SIS) after a successful audition or during the first week of class. Once permission is granted, students must return to SIS to complete registration.
Reminder: The Drop/Add period ends on the second Friday of each semester.
| Director: Dr. Ryan Scherber |
MUEN 383-100: Symphonic Winds MUEN 383-101: Symphonic Winds |
Performances
Concerts are scheduled throughout the academic year and typically take place at the Maltz Performing Arts Center or Florence Harkness Memorial Chapel.
All performances are live-streamed free in Eastern Time, allowing friends and family to watch from anywhere.
Stay up to date on upcoming concerts, recitals, and department announcements by visiting our News & Events page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When are auditions?
Auditions take place during the first week of the fall and spring semesters. Students who did not audition in the fall may audition in the spring.
When does rehearsal begin?
Because auditions occur during the first week of classes, rehearsals begin during the second week after staffing and repertoire assignments are finalized.
Can graduate students participate?
Absolutely. Graduate students from all programs are welcome. After auditioning, consult with Dr. Scherber (ensemble director) regarding the appropriate registration process.
I have a fall conflict. Can I join in spring?
Yes. Students may join Symphonic Winds in spring by completing the spring audition. However, only students who audition in the fall and participate for the full academic year are eligible for Symphony Orchestra semester placement.
How many credit hours should I take?
MUEN ensembles are offered at variable credit (0.0, 0.5, or 1.0 units) to allow flexibility based on academic load and personal preference. Music majors should consult their degree requirements.
Where are practice rooms?
Students enrolled in music ensembles (MUEN) or applied lessons (MUAP), as well as music majors, receive access to practice rooms in Haydn Hall and Denison Hall. Please review departmental policies for details.
Will I have after-hours building access?
Yes. Access is automatically activated for enrolled students. For non-majors, access begins the Monday after Drop/Add.
Is instrument storage available?
Yes. Lockers are available to current music majors and students enrolled in official department ensembles, subject to departmental policies: Instrumental Locker Policies and Requests.
What is the required concert attire?
Professional all-black concert attire, including formal footwear.