University of Manitoba Wind Ensemble

The University of Manitoba Wind Ensemble, based at the Desautels Faculty of Music, is a premier university wind band dedicated to musical excellence, artistic exploration, and the advancement of wind band repertoire. Under the direction of Dr. Jacqueline Dawson, the ensemble performs a diverse range of challenging and engaging works, bringing together talented student musicians in a collaborative and inspiring musical environment.

Committed to expanding the wind band repertoire, the Wind Ensemble has a strong history of commissioning and performing new music, including works by Canadian composers. The ensemble has appeared at festivals across Western Canada, including the Cantando Festival in Edmonton, the Sun Peaks Music Festival, and the Canadian Rocky Mountain Music Festival. It has also performed as part of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra’s New Music Festival and participated in numerous consortium commissions and world premieres. 

The U of M Wind Ensemble serves as an important learning environment for emerging musicians and conductors. Through the exploration of diverse repertoire, collaborative music-making, and opportunities for student conductors to develop their craft, the ensemble fosters artistic growth, leadership, and a lifelong commitment to music. The University of Manitoba Wind Ensemble continues to contribute to the vibrant musical life of the Desautels Faculty of Music and the broader Manitoba arts community, celebrating the expressive possibilities of the wind band while championing innovation, education, and musical excellence.