The Carrollton Wind Symphony has been bringing beautiful music to the community for more than 27 years. The orchestral group, comprising more than 90 volunteer musicians, performs four free concerts per year in addition to performing at special city events, festivals, and conventions.
Carrollton Wind Symphony’s mission is to contribute to the “rich cultural life, vitality, and economic well-being of the City of Carrollton,” according to the organization’s website. It aims to accomplish this through active public advocacy, concert programs, and the support of artists and artistic institutions in the community. The symphony is sponsored by the City of Carrollton.
Originally known as the Carrollton Community Band, the group was first established in 1995 by John Zulli and a small group of fellow musicians. Over time, the band expanded and was renamed the Carrollton Wind Symphony.
As the name suggests, the performing ensemble is made up primarily of woodwind and brass instruments, including flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, french horn, trombone, euphonium, and tuba. In addition, the band has a double bass and percussion section.
The musicians who make up the band vary in background, but all share one trait: a love of music. Some of the band members are professional musicians or school band directors, while others are finding their musical passion after years of pursuing other professions.
For the current artistic director of the symphony, Jim McDaniel, who took the helm in 2006, music has always been a way of life. He has worked with renowned orchestras and conductors as a professional trumpet player. He has both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Music Education.
After many years working as a high school band director, McDaniel has retired but still serves as a mentor to students and other educators. He has served in leadership roles in various organizations to promote music education.
“It’s a lifelong thing you can do and I still love it as much as I did from the very beginning,” McDaniel told Carrollton Leader about his role in the Carrollton Wind Symphony. “I think we just have a lot of people that love making great music, that they love being involved in a program, that will play and have fun, and also play really well.”
“It’s a community thing. We laugh, we have fun, but we work really hard,” he added.
Be sure and mark your calendars for the band’s next scheduled free concert, which will be on October 24 at Creekview High School in Carrollton. The performance starts at 7:30 p.m.
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