Celebrating 34 Years!

MISSION: “Celebrating and sharing the great American wind band tradition by presenting diverse and engaging programs and enriching music education by mentoring and inspiring students.”

The Capital Wind Symphony is widely regarded as one of the nation’s premier wind symphonies.  Based near the Nation’s Capital, the ensemble attracts many of the finest musicians from DC, MD and VA and welcomes new players each season by audition.  Members include military band members, freelance players, studio teachers and music educators. The group rehearses weekly from September thru June, and presents regular concerts in the community including several programs which serve as education outreach. 

Capital Winds was created in 1991 by George Etheridge as an ensemble for musicians near the Nation’s Capital who were committed to playing the finest wind band literature at the highest level.  Soon after the inaugural season, the ensemble was invited to perform at the prestigious Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic. In its 33rd season, the ensemble continues to thrive ,“celebrating and sharing the great American wind band tradition by presenting  diverse and engaging programs and enriching music education by mentoring and inspiring students.”

CAPITAL WIND WORKSHOPS, ™  the Capital Wind Symphony’s educational outreach program, offers a highly effective “side-by-side” musical experience for elementary, middle and high school band musicians to rehearse and learn from professional musicians. 

Capital Wind Symphony is funded in part by ArtsFairfax