Woodwind students at Lawrence enjoy a remarkable range of performance opportunities. All students engage in the rigorous study of solo, chamber, wind, and orchestral literature, developing strong individual musicianship within the context of an intensive performance environment.
The orchestra performs monthly throughout the year undertaking a wide range of major repertoire, including such works as Stravinsky's Rite of Spring, Berlioz's Symphonie Fantastique, and Mahler's Second Symphony. The Wind Ensemble is renowned for exposing students to contemporary and classical wind literature through performances of such composers as Donald Erb, Paul Hindemith, John Harbison, and Richard Strauss. All students participate in chamber music and engage in weekly coachings with artist faculty. Recently, a student woodwind quintet won the Carmel and Neale Silva competitions, placed in the Coleman competition, and performed for a live broadcast on Wisconsin Public Radio. In addition to ensemble experience, the Conservatory provides a unique opportunity for students to perform in weekly studio classes, departmental and individual recitals, as well as master classes.
Guest artists visit the Lawrence campus on a continuous basis and provide master classes as well as performances. Recent guests have included David Shifrin, Richard Stolzman, Carol Wincenc, and Jeannie Baxtresser.
All of these opportunities provide a tremendous platform for a remarkable undergraduate experience. Students in the wind department work closely with faculty and peers in the development of artistic potential, while intensive academic study underpins the broader development of both personal musicianship and intellectual ability.
Woodwind Faculty