The Diablo Wind Symphony kicked off the 2016-17 season with last weekend's annual DWS Retreat at Los Medanos College in Pittsburg, CA. Nearly fifty students convened for the first time on Saturday afternoon, and performed a preview concert for families on Sunday evening, after just ten hours of rehearsals and master classes.
Founded in 1995, the Diablo Wind Symphony was created to provide learning and performance opportunities to local students in the concert setting. Working alongside and supporting the scholastic music programs in the Concord area is a priority for BD Performing Arts.
The ensemble rehearses and performs under the direction of John and Diane Maltester, holding weekly rehearsals throughout the academic year, as well as five concerts per season.
In addition to its impressive concert schedule, the DWS has also toured overseas in Australia and Europe. Special performances also include venues such as Cazadero Music Camp and the Concord Pavilion, as well as collaborating at several university concerts. Activities each year also include master classes by top professional bay area musicians and performances with guest artists from around the country.
The 2016-17 season includes guest artists include the Saint Mary's College Chamber Chorale, and a special Mother's Day concert featuring jazz violinist Jeremy Cohen.
John Maltester stated, "I am very excited about this season, working with incredibly talented students and collaborating with world-famous artists. We hope to see many friends, both new and old, throughout the upcoming concert season."
Auditions are open until all positions are filled.
• Get audition info
• See the 2016-17 concert calendar