An ensemble for high school woodwind, brass and percussion players held at the Glauser School of Music
Questions? Email Us Intent to Audition Form
The Kent State Youth Winds (KSYW) provides local high school and exceptional middle school/junior high school wind and percussion players the opportunity to learn music performance techniques from professional artist-teachers from KSU, develop individual playing skills and perform in a Wind Ensemble with other interested and highly skilled young musicians. Through this experience, students will have the opportunity to enrich and advance their musicianship in a supportive yet challenging environment. In addition to developing artistic skills, students will also have the opportunity to develop non-musical skills including critical thinking, collaboration, communication and time management.
Who can join?
The Kent State Youth Winds (KSYW) provides an opportunity for talented young musicians to develop their individual talents and musicianship, learn from professional artists/teachers associated with Kent State University, and perform in an auditioned wind ensemble with other skilled players.
Membership is open to 8-12th grade students (Academic Year 2025-2026).
Students must participate in their school music programs to be eligible to audition. This requirement is waived for homeschooled students.
Rehearsals and Concerts
- The KSYW will take place during the academic year (September - April).
- Rehearsals will be held on the Kent State University, Kent Campus on Mondays from 7 to 9:15 p.m.
- The ensemble will present two concerts per year in Kent State University's Cartwright Hall in November and April.
- Sunday, December 14
Dress Rehearsal at 1:30 p.m.; Concert at 3 p.m. - Sunday, April 26
Final concert of the season in collaboration with the Kent State Wind Ensemble
Dress Rehearsal at 1:30 p.m.; Concert at 3 p.m.
- Sunday, December 14
Instruments Accepted
Instruments in the Youth Winds include:
- Flute
- Oboe
- Clarinet
- Bass Clarinet
- Bassoon
- Saxophones (Alto, Tenor, and Baritone)
- Trumpet
- Horn
- Trombone
- Euphonium
- Tuba
- String Bass
- Percussion
Instructors
Dr. Ben Lorenzo - Director, Kent State Youth Winds
Benjamin Lorenzo is an associate professor of music and the Director of Bands at Kent State University's Glauser School of Music where he conducts the Wind Ensemble, teaches conducting, and provides leadership for university bands. Previously, he served as Associate Director of Bands and Director of Athletic Bands at the University of Arkansas where he led the Razorback Marching Band and Wind Symphony. Before this appointment, Lorenzo held positions at Oklahoma State and Texas Tech University. His teaching experience also includes high schools in Florida and Texas.
Michael Foster - Faculty and Ensemble Administrator
Kent State youth Winds
- 330-672-2431
- ksyw@kent.edu
Music Office
- 330-672-2172
Location
Kent State University
Glauser School of Music
Center for the Performing Arts
1325 Theatre Drive
Kent, OH 44242