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As part of our Advancing Innovation through Music (AIM) program, The U.S. Air Force Band is excited to announce an event for collegiate wind and percussion musicians: The United States Air Force Band Collegiate Symposium. The Symposium offers a unique opportunity for talented college musicians to immerse themselves in one of the world's finest professional wind ensembles.

The Symposium will be held January 31 through February 2, 2019 and is open to wind, percussion and string bass players who are studying music in college and are citizens or legal permanent residents of the United States. Those selected to attend are sure to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime musical experience finishing with a performance at Schlesinger Concert Hall on Saturday, February 2 at 8 p.m. The Symposium is free--no tuition or fees. Lodging will be provided; selected attendees are responsible for their transportation and meal expenses.

This three-day workshop encompasses a variety of events to enhance musical growth and learning: clinics, masterclasses, rehearsals and round table discussions. The weekend culminates in a joint public and live-streamed performance with the U.S. Air Force Concert Band.

The Symposium is open to wind, percussion, harp, and double bass players who are studying music in college and are citizens or legal permanent residents of the United States.

Participation is currently limited to applicants who are enrolled in a bachelor's or master's degree program. Doctoral candidates will not be considered for participation in the symposium. Previous attendees are not eligible.

For consideration, applicants must submit the following:

A resume, including the applicant's name, instrument, address with ZIP code, telephone number, email address and school.
An audio (digital) recording of two short excerpts. The repertoire of required excerpts for each instrument is available for download and listed on the right.
Deadline for submissions is
December 1st, 2018.
Questions can be submitted to: USAFBandCollegiateSymposium@gmail.com

2019 Collegiate Symposium Flyer

Required Excerpts

1. Be musical. Make music and really sell your product. Often, students strive for perfection.We would much rather hear an inspired musical performance instead of a "safe" performance. Strive for a performance that exhibits your maturity and depth. It goes without saying that the right notes and rhythms must be in the right places. What you do with those notes and rhythms is what will separate you from others.

2. Record with the highest quality equipment possible. Not all of us have the opportunity to utilize a professional recording studio; however this is not necessarily needed. You can record using a digital recorder or even a microphone plugged into your computer and it can sound wonderful. The key is to record in a space that naturally sounds good. Additional effects such as reverb and post production methods are not needed, and most good listeners can tell when they are implemented.

3. Be professional. Do not submit anything that you're not 100% proud of. If you are not satisfied with what you hear, record it again. You are your best critic and know when you are playing at your best. Listen to your recording many times before you decide to send it. Are you playing with good timing and rhythmic accuracy? Are you playing with the best tone quality you can possibly produce on your instrument? Are you consistent in each given excerpt? Are you creating an engaging atmosphere? Once you are satisfied that you have captured the best possible version of your playing, then it is time to submit your recording.

Have fun and use this recording experience to learn something about your own playing. Take stock of where you are in your development and continue to grow.

Happy Practicing!