Oxford University Wind Orchestra
Oxford’s leading student wind orchestra
About us
OUWO is a friendly and high-level auditioned ensemble for woodwind, brass and percussion. We play a wide range of music: some examples of repertoire from recent years includes wind band staples such as El Camino Real (Reed), Blue Shades (Ticheli) and Emblems (Copland), orchestral arrangements such as Petrushkha (Stravinsky) and Daphnis et Chloe (Ravel) and pieces for individual sections of the band, such as Giovanni Gabrieli's Sonate Pian'e Forte for brass and Holst's St Paul's Suite for woodwind. In previous years we have competed in the National Concert Band Festival (NCBF), achieving Platinum awards at both the regional and national level in 2024-5. We are evaluating the costs of competing again this year, but regardless we aspire to a high level of detail and finesse in our music making. We also have a Varsity Concert with Cambridge University Wind Orchestra in Hilary (Spring) Term; this year we will host Cambridge in the new Sohmen Concert Hall, with half a programme each and a joint piece. OUWO balances quality musicianship with a relaxed and communal environment, and we have socials throughout the year to build up community amongst our players.
Meet the committee
Student FAQ
What's the rehearsal schedule?
We rehearse every Thursday from 7-10 PM
Where and when do you perform?
Our concerts are usually in week 6 or 7 of each term; Venues change year by year, but we look forward to playing in the newly built Sohmen Concert Hall in February for our Varsity concert with the Cambridge University Wind Orchestra!
What's the conductor like?
Kyle is fun but pays attention to detail, has an encyclopaedic knowledge of wind orchestra repertoire, and knows half the musicians in Oxford!
Do you audition?
Yes, through the central OUMS auditions
Who can I contact for more information?
Please reach out to felix.thomson@oriel.ox.ac.uk