About Us
The wind band program at Youngstown State University has a rich history of collaboration with musical artists, including some of the most distinguished composers, conductors, and performers of our time to provide transformative experiences for our musical community. Notable artists include Michael Colgrass, Sean Jones, Joseph Schwantner, Donald Sinta, Allen Vizzutti, and many more. This collaboration frequently includes participating and leading commissions to propel the wind repertoire forward. The Wind Ensemble has had the honor of performing at prestigious venues throughout the United States, including repeated performances at the OMEA Conference, CBDNA Regional and National Conferences, MENC National Conference, ASBDA National Conference, and the world-renowned Carnegie Hall. The group has released a total of seven professionally produced and critically acclaimed CDs.
The YSU Wind Ensemble, directed by Dr. Michael S. Butler, is the premier concert band in the Dana School of Music and consists of the top wind and percussion students. The Wind Ensemble performs a wide range of music, including contemporary literature and standard repertoire, to ensure students receive exposure to the finest music written for the medium. Auditions are open to all qualified YSU students and are held at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters.
Please contact Dr. Michael S. Butler for more information about the Wind Ensemble. mbutler03@ysu.edu