Conductor: Mr. David Schmuck
The Symphonic Winds is the second competitive concert band at Richardson High School. Entrance is by audition only. The class is designed to develop strong musical fundamentals and work ethic. Students will be asked to concentrate their efforts on a variety of musical tasks. Tone production, articulation, breathing, intonation, technical ability, ensemble skills, and sight-reading are all elements students will be required to develop.
The band will perform upper-level high school and early collegiate level band literature. Most of the fall semester curriculum is focused on marching band music and All-Region music preparation. The spring semester centers on concert music. Students are required to attend sectionals and one-on-one sessions outside of school throughout the year.
Members are required to audition for All-Region and perform at solo at the RISD Chamber Music Festival. Members are expected to participate in private lessons. Students are expected to be quite serious about improving their musical skills and are therefore required to dedicate significant time to personal practice. Students may be moved down to a lower concert band if they do not meet the requirements of this ensemble.
The Symphonic Winds perform at most band department concerts and competes at concert band festivals, including UIL in the Spring. Students in this ensemble are expected to participate in any associated competitive travel, including the Spring Trip.