The NBA Wind Band Symposium at West Chester University’s Wells School of Music was a standout success, bringing together talented high school ensembles, collegiate leaders, and industry professionals for a weekend centered on performance, mentorship, and music education advocacy. From powerful concerts to insightful discussions, the event showcased the lasting impact of collaborative learning in band programs.
Featured High School Wind Band Performances
Three exceptional high school wind bands presented diverse and thoughtfully selected repertoire, highlighting both classic and contemporary wind literature.
Warwick High School
Warwick’s program balanced emotional depth with technical excitement:
Stay – Scott Standridge
John and Jim – Viet Cuong
Three Ring Circus – Adrian B. Sims
A Childhood Remembered – Rossano Galante
Phoenixville High School
Phoenixville offered contrast and expressive storytelling:
A Colonial Legend – Clare Grundman
The Seal Lullaby – Eric Whitacre
Undertow – John Mackey
Hatboro-Horsham High School
Hatboro-Horsham energized the audience with a mix of cinematic, contemporary, and traditional works:
John Williams in Concert – arr. Paul Lavender
Rippling Watercolors – Brian Balmages
The Invincible Eagle – John Philip Sousa
Educator Roundtable: Insight, Experience, and Mentorship
A key component of the symposium was the educator roundtable discussion featuring directors from each participating ensemble alongside respected leaders in collegiate and professional band education:
Dr. Julia Baumanis – Associate Director of Bands, Rutgers University
Dr. Andrew Yozviak – Director of Bands, West Chester University
Dr. Hannah Morrison – Associate Director of Bands, West Chester University
Dr. Adam Gumble – Director of Athletic Bands, West Chester University
Andrew Hitz – Jupiter Instruments
Topics included repertoire selection, defining success in music programs, student recruitment, mentorship, and the personal journeys that led each panelist into teaching. The discussion provided practical insight and inspiration for directors at every stage of their careers.
A Successful Weekend with Lasting Impact
The NBA Wind Band Symposium brought together students, educators, and partners around a shared mission: supporting excellence in band education. Through inspired performances, insightful dialogue, and meaningful mentorship, the event reinforced the vital role music plays in education and community.
As we look ahead, the success of this symposium sets a strong foundation for future collaborations that continue to inspire the next generation of musicians and music educators.
Supporting Music Education at Every Level
J.W. Pepper was proud to support the symposium and produce the live stream of the event.
Delivering music since 1876, J.W. Pepper is a tireless advocate for music education and a proud partner of the National Band Association and West Chester University. With the largest selection of music for band, choir, orchestra, and beyond, every order is backed by our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.
