Celebrating 31 Years!

MISSION:  “Celebrating and sharing the great American Wind Band Tradition by presenting diverse and engaging programs and enriching music education by mentoring and inspiring students.”

The Capital Wind Symphony, under the direction of George Etheridge, is widely regarded as one of the nation’s premier wind symphonies.  Based near the Nation’s Capital, the ensemble attracts many of the finest musicians from DC, MD and VA and welcomes new players each season by audition.  Members include military musicians, freelance players, studio teachers and music educators. The group rehearses weekly from September thru June, and presents regular concerts in the community including several programs which serve as education outreach. 

Capital Winds was created in 1991 by Mr. Etheridge as an ensemble for musicians near the Nation’s Capital who were committed to playing the finest wind band literature at the highest level.  Soon after the inaugural season, the ensemble was invited to perform at the prestigious Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic.  After 30 years, the band continues to thrive and support its mission which is “celebrating and preserving the great American band tradition by presenting diverse and artistic performances of contemporary and classic works, and by working closely with music educators to nurture and inspire student involvement within their school music programs.” 

CAPITAL WIND WORKSHOPS, ™  the Capital Wind Symphony’s educational outreach program, offers a highly effective “side-by-side” musical experience for elementary, middle and high school band musicians to rehearse and learn from professional musicians. 

Capital Wind Symphony is funded in part by
ArtsFairfax Emergency Relief and Recovery Grant