Calvin College Wind Ensemble
Formally the Calvin Band, the Calvin College Wind Ensemble is the concert band of Calvin College and is conducted by Dr. Tiffany Engle. The Wind Ensemble performs regularly throughout the academic year with major concerts each semester and an annual Christmas Pops Concert in December. Appearances at the Fall Music Festival and in local churches fill out the band's performance schedule. The Wind Ensemble also tours annually within North America and has frequently traveled to Eastern Europe. In May 2008, the Wind Ensemble toured Eastern Europe.
Open by audition to students in all class levels, the Wind Ensemble rehearses on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Listening Samples
| Masque (6:01) Kenneth Hesketh |
MP3 |
| Suite Francaise - Normandie (1:50) Darius Milhaud |
MP3 |
| Festal Scenes (6:17) Yasuhide Ito |
MP3 |
Calvin College Symphonic Band
Formally the Knollcrest Band, the Calvin College Symphonic Band, directed by Dr. Tiffany Engle is one of two Calvin ensembles devoted to the combination of woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. Unlike the Wind Ensemble which adheres to the wind ensemble model of smaller, more flexible instrumentation, the Symphonic Band assumes the role of a larger ensemble. Nonetheless, members of the Symphonic Band constantly strive to achieve musical excellence in the performance of both traditional and contemporary concert band repertoire.
The Symphonic Band seating and part assignments are determined by yearly auditions in which students perform a prepared solo piece, various band literature excerpts, and sight-reading. This ensemble typically presents two performances during the semester, shared concerts with both the Wind Ensemble and Jazz Band. Other performance opportunities for full band and/or chamber ensembles often arise in venues both on campus and within the surrounding community.
As Christian musicians, we recognize that all things belong to God. This awareness heightens our sense of gratitude for the many blessings that our Creator has graciously given to us. We believe that we are called to develop these talents, to constantly refine our natural skills as much as possible. Thus our faith is the driving force for what we do as Christians, musicians, and ensemble members. The Symphonic Band brings together individuals who enjoy making music in an ensemble setting-an atmosphere conducive to artistic development, spiritual enrichment, and empowering Christian fellowship.
The Symphonic Band rehearses Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 12:30-1:20 p.m.
Listening Samples:
Symphonic Band - Calvin College Fall Music Festival 2008 from Calvin College on Vimeo.
Calvin College Pep Band
The Calvin College Pep Band seeks to entertain fans while also encouraging players and increasing fan participation at Calvin Men’s and Women’s basketball games. For more information about the Pep Band, please contact the faculty advisor, Dr. Tiffany Engle at tje4@calvin.edu.
