State Wind Bands
The State Wind Bands provides an opportunity for high potential and gifted music students in NSW public schools to perform in a state ensemble under the direction of professional conductors. The bands will perform repertoire chosen to challenge and extend students' musical skills.
- Senior Wind Band for students in Years 9 to Year 12
- Junior Wind Band for students in Years 5 to Year 8
About the program
Students who play piccolo, flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet, alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone, french horn, trumpet, trombone, euphonium, tuba, double bass, electric bass and percussion are eligible to apply.
Students will experience an intensive rehearsal schedule working with professional conductors and tutors in large ensemble and small sectional sessions to prepare for the performances. Music will be sent to students to prepare prior to the rehearsals. Music will be chosen to challenge the student’s technique and musicality. Approximately 65 students from across New South Wales will be selected for each ensemble.
Applications for the 2025 State Wind Bands are now open.
Applications close on Friday 16 May 2025 (Term 2 Week 3).
Enquiries
Performance opportunities
The State Wind Bands participate in The Arts Unit's Festival of Instrumental Music as performance opportunities.
- For Senior State Wind Band, a minimum of Grade 5 or equivalent is required.
They participate in workshops at The Arts Unit Lewisham, Saturday 23 – Sunday 24 August and perform at The Sydney Opera House Monday 25 – Tuesday 26 August 2025.
- For Junior State Wind Band, a minimum of Grade 3 or equivalent is required.
They participate in workshops at The Arts Unit Lewisham, Saturday 6 – Sunday 7 September and perform at The Sydney Opera House Monday 8 – Tuesday 9 September 2025.
Cost
- Sydney metropolitan student participation fee – $110 (incl GST)
- Students from rural and remote schools– $85.50 (incl GST)
Travel and accommodation
Students are expected to organise their own accommodation, as well as travel to and from all rehearsals and performances.
Student supervision
Students will be supervised by DoE teachers during rehearsals and performances.
Teacher professional learning opportunity
Applications for the 2025 State Wind Bands TPL have closed.
The State Wind Bands provide the opportunity for teachers to join a professional learning program run in conjunction with the student ensemble.
There are 3 key outcomes that will be covered through the teaching mentor program.
- improve proficiency in planning and conducting successful rehearsals and increase knowledge to lead ensembles to a higher standard
- enhance knowledge of higher level conducting techniques as appropriate to performance through an understanding of technique and style
- develop conducting skills through practical experience, observation and discussions
The 2 day weekend workshop will include observations of the Junior Wind Band rehearsals as well as some breakout conducting sessions with highly accomplished conductor Steve Williams.
This professional learning is aimed at all levels of conducting skill and experience and will take place on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September at The Arts Unit (Lewisham) from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm and is free of charge. Lunch will be provided, and rural and remote teachers will have their accommodation and travel expenses covered.
All Arts Unit programs are inclusive. If support is required to participate in the State Wind Bands, please email [email protected] so that we can assist.
