A wind symphony (often referred to as a wind ensemble, wind orchestra, concert band, or symphonic band) is a performing ensemble consisting of members of the woodwind, brass, and percussion families of instruments. Unlike a “symphony orchestra” which is mostly strings, a wind symphony contains every wind, brass and percussion instrument, including saxophones, euphoniums, and pitched percussion. A wind symphony will often include the harp, piano, and double bass, but otherwise, there are no stringed instruments (violins, violas, cellos) in a wind symphony.
The “symphony” description simply refers to the primary type of music performed, although many different musical styles (including popular and classical music, military marches and patriotic songs, theater music and jazz, and contemporary original compositions) are part of the core repertoire of wind symphonies. Little Rock Winds enjoys performing this variety of musical styles that always inspires, uplifts and entertains.
Since Little Rock Winds performed its first concert on February 9, 1994, it has been our mission to share this bounty of wind band music with audiences across Arkansas.