WindSync | College & University

Windsync’s College & University programs offer many opportunities for students, from participation in Artistic workshops to Engagement and entrepreneurship workshops and seminars.

Artistic workshops
Chamber music master class

• Ensembles chosen by the department(s) perform and all five WindSync members coach together

OR Chamber music guest coachings

• WindSync members split into different classrooms and provide individualized or partnered coaching for each ensemble

Individual instrument master classes

Visiting a composition or orchestration class

• Reading new works for wind quintet by student composers and providing constructive feedback

• Discussion of idiomatic writing for the wind quintet; demonstration of various techniques and textures from quintet repertoire and/or readings of students’ work

Open rehearsals

• Observation of WindSync in rehearsal of new commissioned repertoire or new original arrangements

Engagement and entrepreneurship workshops

General entrepreneurship class

• Large group setting open to entire department; free form discussion about WindSync, how to start an ensemble, finding a niche, and long-term viability

OR Visiting an entrepreneurship class

• Faculty who already teach in the areas of career development, nonprofit management, community engagement, etc. can suggest a topic to address within their syllabus or host a Q & A

Seminar: Crafting effective educational programs

• Using WindSync’s educational performances as a model, students can experience first-hand the different modes of communication that young people and special needs audiences require. Practical approaches are covered, including managing audience attention spans, age-appropriate musical selections and concepts, and how to make programs more interactive.

Seminar: Sound Places

• A class that looks at the role of musicians in public spaces, outside of traditional concert venues, and how partnerships with city planners and other local organizations can make our cities more livable and creative. After looking at a case study from WindSync’s 2017 Sound Places residency in Opelousas, Louisiana, students will have the chance to identify public spaces and partners local to them that might be enriched through performance.

Community ensemble mini-incubator (If multiple residency visits)

• During or after the fall residency, pre-formed ensembles from the student body design a non-traditional concert program in one of two categories, education or Sound Places. 1-2 ensembles are then selected (either by faculty or by WindSync) to execute their project. WindSync provides mentorship at each step of the way and collaborates with the ensembles during the spring residency.