Making their debut in their new home at the Williamsport Scottish Rite Auditorium, The Great Lakes Wind Symphony will perform its “Celebrate America” concert at 7:00 p.m. July 4, according to a press release.

The GLWS is staffed by 44 professional musicians, with expansion of members as the music they perform requires. As a true wind ensemble, there is one player per part, with exception of some woodwinds where some doubling of players exists for balance with the brass and percussion. Though the ensemble carries a bass player, there are no other strings associated with this group. Smaller than a traditional symphonic band – something that our audiences may be more familiar with from their school days participating in bands themselves – the GLWS has the goal of performing the finest music available to the modern American wind ensemble.

The mission of the Great Lakes Wind Symphony is to encourage, perform, and actively promote the finest band music featuring American composers and themes; to bring together the American people through a shared musical heritage that features the greatest artistic expression of culture both past and present; to foster compassion, empathy, caring, understanding and critical thinking through music and music educational outreach, and; to instill in all people an awareness of the importance of music to the enrichment of the human spirit and the commonality of living the American way.

The GLWS emphasize a welcoming environment for all families, especially young children and individuals with exceptionalities.

“We are on a mission to change the concert environment and make it a place for everyone,” said artistic director Dr. Adam F. Brennan. “It is not our intention to turn the concert hall into a sporting atmosphere, but rather, to be a welcoming place where everyone can enjoy the benefit of music. If your child needs to get up and dance, or your friend with special needs is moved to call out, let them! I think we are doing something right if that is their response.”

Tickets may be purchased at the door or in advance at GreatLakesWindSymphony.org.