Dr. Paul Vance
Ensemble Director

The Winona Symphony Orchestra (WSO) includes both WSU students and members of the community. Students will receive 1 credit which can be applied to their music major or minor or toward their university studies requirement for performing in this ensemble. The WSO performs orchestral pieces from the baroque period to the present day. They hold four concerts each year as well as the annual WSU Concerto/Aria competition; the winner of this competition is awarded the opportunity to play a solo concerto with the Winona Symphony Orchestra. The ensemble meets Thursday nights from 7:00 to 9:30 PM. There is also a string sectional rehearsal on Tuesdays from 3:30 to 4:50. Students who wish to receive credit for WSO must attend both rehearsals.

Here are a few pieces of information that will be helpful to you in preparing to get involved in our orchestral program:

• The requirement to become involved in the WSO is to audition.

• Participating in an orchestral ensemble is considered a one-credit class which can be used towards your Music major or minor. If you are not a Music student, this credit can be used as a university studies credit towards your graduation.

• If you do not own an instrument, we have a limited supply of violins, violas, cellos, basses, and harps that can be borrowed. If you are interested in borrowing one of these instruments, please contact Dr. Vance.

• The concert attire for both ensembles includes a long black dress for women and a black suit and bow tie for men.

There are many wonderful opportunities awaiting you here at Winona State University. We hope that you will consider our fine orchestral program in your search for musical enrichment.

Refer to the newsletter, Orchestra at WSU, for current news and events about the WSU orchestral program.

For further information about the WSU orchestra ensembles, please contact Dr. Paul Vance.