AYWS young artists 2024

For years, students, parents, and directors have asked if the Atlanta Youth Wind Symphony would ever consider floating a “middle school experience.”  After multiple discussions and focus groups, we are pleased to announce the launch of AYWS YOUNG ARTISTS, which will initially take the form of an “honor-band style” weekend experience.

WHAT IS AYWSYA?
AYWS Young Artists (AYWSYA) is a middle school component of the Atlanta Youth Wind Symphony.  The format of AYWSA an honor band-style weekend with two brief rehearsals on a Saturday and a short concert on a Sunday.  The ensemble will consists of approximately 100 musicians.

WHAT IS THE MISSION OF AYWSYA?
The goal is to provide a positive musical, artistic, educational, and social experience in a fun and non-competitive environment for its members.  We hope that members will take the musicianship, enthusiasm, and positive energy back to their home programs. 

HOW DOES A STUDENT BECOME A PART OF AYWSYA?
Directors will nominate advanced middle school students (e.g. District or All-State players, students enrolled in private lessons, musical leaders in their schools) and the ensemble will be assembled.

Directors should contact ayws@ayws.org for a link to the nomination form.

WHAT MUSIC WILL BE REHEARSED AND PERFORMED?
3-4 challenging pieces will be performed, including new music by Guest Composer-in-Residence, Dr. Aaron Perrine.  His website can be found here.

WILL THE MUSIC BE PROVIDED AHEAD OF TIME?
Yes.  A link with PDF copies of the music will be sent to all members.

WILL INSTRUMENTS BE PROVIDED?
All woodwind and brass players should provide their own instruments.  All percussion instruments will be provided.  Percussionists should bring a basic set of sticks and mallets.

WHAT IS THE LOCATION?
Rehearsals and the concert will take place at Lakeside High School, 3801 Briarcliff Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30345 in DeKalb County.

WHAT IS THE COST?
If accepted, the cost per student $85.00 per student, or about the amount of a one-hour instrumental music lesson. Students will interface with Dr. Scott Stewart, Music Director and Conductor of the Atlanta Youth Wind Symphony, and Dr. Aaron Perrine, Guest Composer-in-Residence.  Lunch on Saturday and a t-shirt are included in the fee.

Please contact ayws@ayws.org if a student is in need of financial aid in order to participate.

WHAT IS THE SCHEDULE?
Saturday, October 5                    

9:00-9:45 am arrival and registration 
10:00-11:45 am  rehearsal #1
12:00-12:30 pm  lunch
12:45-2:45 pm     rehearsal #2
3:00 pm departure

Sunday, October 6                        

1:00 pm               arrival
1:15-1:40 pm       warm-up and sound check
1:45 pm               doors open
2:00 pm               concert
2:30 pm               concert ends | departure

WILL THE STUDENTS BE SUPERVISED?
Yes.  AYWS staff and Section Leaders will be present to keep all students on task and in the right place at the right time.

MAY PARENTS and DIRECTORS OBSERVE THE REHEARSALS?
Yes.  We ask that any observers observe quietly and abstain from cell phone use.  Anyone who would like to catch up on emails and phone calls may do so in the Fine Arts Auditorium foyer at Lakeside, just outside the Auditorium.

WHAT IS THE COST OF THE FINAL CONCERT?
The final concert on Sunday at 2:00 pm is free and open to the public.

WHERE CAN I FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE ATLANTA YOUTH WIND SYMPHONY?
Visit ayws.org and follow AYWS on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube!

WHO CAN I CONTACT IF I HAVE QUESTIONS?
Email ayws@ayws.org.