University Wind Ensemble

About...

The Pacific Lutheran University Wind Ensemble is comprised of some of the best performers of wind and percussion instruments at the university and is recognized as one of the finest wind bands in the Pacific Northwest. Following the philosophy of a player pool, adopting flexible instrumentation according to the composer’s intention, the full ensemble of approximately 50 players is soloistic and technically stunning performing chamber music, selected transcriptions, concerti, and original works. The PLU Wind Ensemble is committed to a balanced programming philosophy that combines the study and performance of standard repertoire while also centering the works of diverse composers. As such, the PLU Wind Ensemble has long been a champion of commissioning and performing new works.

The ensemble performs four home concerts on campus per academic year. In addition, the PLU Wind Ensemble hosts a two-day Band Invitational in March and the PLU Pacific Northwest High School Honor Band event each January with over 300 high school students attending. The PLU Wind Ensemble tours regionally every other year and has been featured at many regional conferences and festivals.

Recent highlights have included critically acclaimed performances at the College Band Directors Association Conference, the Western International Band Clinic, the Music for All Regional Band Festival in Vancouver, WA, and the state WMEA conference in Yakima. Recent international tours have included Australia, Spain and Portugal, and Ireland. Plans are underway now for the 2027 PLU Instrumental Ensembles International Tour.