Beginning fall 2021, Kent State University’s Glauser School of Music will launch the Kent State Youth Winds. The new ensemble—a joint venture by the Kent State Bands and Music Education departments—will welcome eighth to 12th-grade students from around the region.
“I’m so pleased we’ll be launching this new ensemble, particularly given the challenges we’ve collectively faced over the last year due to the pandemic,” said Kent McWilliams, D.M.A., director of the Glauser School. “As we anticipate a fall that’s closer to normal, I look forward to welcoming these young musicians to our campus.”
Wendy K. Matthews, Ph.D., director of bands and associate professor of music education, will lead the new ensemble. She’ll be joined by instructors Sarah Kois (M.M. ‘20) and Garrett Doty. Kois currently teaches band at Streetsboro High School and Henry Defer Intermediate School, and Doty teaches band at Kent City School’s Stanton Middle School. Kent State students enrolled in the instrumental methods class will also work with the ensemble as part of their music education classes.
“This initiative will provide an opportunity for young musicians to develop their individual playing and ensemble skills while also meeting others like them from across Northeast Ohio,” said Matthews. “Not only will this provide great opportunities for its members, but the music education students will also have time on the podium conducting and assisting with sectionals. Our goal is to provide a positive, enriching and fulfilling musical experience for everyone involved.”
Auditions for the ensemble will take place in-person or online. Live auditions are on May 16, from noon to 6 p.m. and May 24, from 4 to 9 p.m. in the Glauser School of Music (Center for the Performing Arts, 1325 Theatre Dr., Kent Campus). Video auditions are due May 16. Find more information and audition requirements at www.kent.edu/youth-winds.
Tuition for the ensemble is $250, with some limited, need-based scholarships available. Members of the ensemble must also remain enrolled in their school ensemble. Homeschooled students are exempt from this requirement.