New for the 2013 – 2014 season, PVYO will offer a Concert Band for students in grades 6 through 9, and a high school Wind Ensemble for students in grades 10-12.  Robert Dahlin, long-time PVYO conductor and 2006 – 2007 “Montgomery County Teacher of the Year” will lead the Concert Band in its inaugural year, and Terry Alvey, our long time PVYO Conductor and past Maryland All-State Conductor will lead the Wind Ensemble. This is a wonderful opportunity for  woodwind, brass, and percussion students to develop their skills in an encouraging, fun and enriching environment!

Historically, there has been very few “full-year” large ensemble experiences for winds aside from the limited seats for winds within a youth orchestra.  The county and state bands only meet for a handful of rehearsals and perform one concert, and are extremely competitive and generally enrolled by the oldest players within the age range for each group.  The PVYO Concert Band and Wind Ensemble will open up many more opportunities for students  across grades 6-12 and greatly augment their musical experience and preparation for their school, county, and state bands.

Audition materials may include any past or current all-state requirements,  or simply an appropriate solo as indicated in the audition requirements.  After the first concert the PVYO Concert Band and Wind Ensemble will take a short break to allow for members to perform in their county or state band, and resume in February to begin work on the spring semester.