ABOUT

Grand Symphonic Winds

From local stages to concert halls worldwide, we champion exceptional wind music and foster artistic excellence.

What Inspires us

Everything we do stems from our passion for exceptional wind music and our commitment to bringing transformative musical experiences to audiences and musicians alike.

MIssion and Values

OUR MISSION

We are a premier civic wind ensemble of accomplished musicians dedicated to enriching lives through music. We perform unique repertoire from around the world and collaborate with internationally renowned composers, conductors, and performers.

OUR VISION

We strive to be recognized locally, nationally, and internationally for engaging audiences through new and diverse music. We are committed to artistic excellence while amplifying underrepresented and emerging composers.

Our Story

From Vision to International Acclaim

Grand Symphonic Winds began in 1987 when two recent college graduates, Jim Dempsey and Carrie Magnuson, envisioned something different - a civic wind ensemble that would perform challenging, college-level repertoire rather than traditional "community band" music. Under founding director Jim Dempsey's leadership through 1993, GSW quickly established itself as the Twin Cities' premier civic wind ensemble.

In 1994, the ensemble welcomed Professor Matthew George, Director of Bands at the University of St. Thomas, as our new conductor. Dr. George has now led GSW for over 30 years, guiding us to new heights of musical excellence and international recognition.

What started as two musicians' dream has evolved into an internationally acclaimed ensemble that has performed on four continents, collaborated with world-renowned artists, and been invited to prestigious conferences including the Midwest Clinic and MMEA conventions. From local stages to concert halls in Beijing, São Paulo, Madrid, and London - GSW continues to champion exceptional wind music and bring transformative experiences to audiences worldwide.

Watch and listen to a sample of our performances.

Our Leadership

Dr. Matthew George
Professor, University of St. Thomas

Dr. Matthew George has served as GSW's conductor and musical director for over 30 years, transforming the ensemble into an internationally acclaimed organization. As an international artist and also Professor of Music, John Ireland Distinguished Teacher/Scholar, Director of Bands and former Chair of the Department of Music (20 years) at the University of St. Thomas, Dr. George brings exceptional academic and artistic credentials to GSW.

Under his leadership, GSW has:

Performed at the prestigious Midwest Clinic (2010, 2019)

Toured four continents with performances in China, Brazil, Spain, and the United Kingdom

Performed at the Shanghai International Music Festival

Performed at the Ouro Preto (Brazil) International Music Festival

Performed at the conference for the College Band Directors National Association

Been featured at multiple Minnesota Music Educators' Association conventions

Collaborated with world-renowned guest artists and composers

Elevated the ensemble's artistic standards and international recognition

Dr. George's vision and dedication have guided GSW from a local civic ensemble to an organization recognized worldwide for its commitment to exceptional wind music and artistic excellence.

Collaborations

World-Class Artistic Partnerships

GSW has had the honor of collaborating with internationally renowned artists who bring their expertise and artistry to our performances. These partnerships elevate our musical excellence and provide unique experiences for both our musicians and audiences.