Oxford University Wind Orchestra
Manager: Matthew Bentham
Do you audition?
Yes, as part of OUMS - find out more here
What is the usual rehearsal schedule?
Thursdays, 7-10pm (with a biscuit break in the middle!
When do you perform?
We play a concert each term, usually around 6th/7th Wee
Where can I buy tickets for the next concert?
The Oxford University Wind Orchestra gives a large number of woodwind, brass and percussion players from across the University the opportunity to perform in a successful, friendly and talented ensemble. Rehearsals take place on Thursday evenings during Full Term, culminating in at least one concert per term, with recent venues including the University Church, Keble College Chapel, the Wesley Memorial Church and St John’s College Auditorium. OUWO plays a variety of repertoire, from modern film scores to opera to world premiere piece, and everything in between! In Michaelmas '23, OUWO will explore folk music from around the world.
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We also take pride in our access and outreach program, which this year has included a ‘meet the instrument’ event aimed at schools, a conducting workshop aimed at musicians trying to get into conducting at Oxford, and we have plans to visit schools and care homes over the coming term!
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OUWO is run and conducted entirely by students. A new conductor is appointed in Trinity Term each year following auditions in front of the whole orchestra; often (but not always) the conductor is appointed from within the ranks of the orchestra. Membership of OUWO is normally by audition at the beginning of the academic year. We are affiliated to OUMS, the Oxford University Music Society, and many of our members also perform in one or more of the other OUMS ensembles.
OUWO Conductors
Auditions for the conductorship of OUMS take place each Hilary Term, with the new conductors taking over in Trinity Term
Maria Copley
Conductor
Hi! I'm Maria, and a second year at New College, studying music. I play trumpet, cello, piano, sing, conduct and compose. I've been OUWO's principal conductor since Trinity last year, and it's a joy! Everyone is so wonderful to work with, the rehearsals have been so much fun, and productive. Our summer concert was a blast, and our next one will include a world premier! It's a wonderful, friendly, welcoming community and I feel very fortunate to be a part of it.
Tom Bruges
Assistant Conductor
Tom Bruges is a second year student reading music at St Anne’s College. Though his first instrument is Classical Guitar, Tom has entered the world of conducting with opportunities from the Oxford Conducting Institute alongside setting up new music events like a performance of Terry Riley’s In C and running a concert series of new music from Oxford composers, RED LIPSTICK. This will be Tom’s second term working with OUWO and he is very excited to work with Maria to present the exciting programme.
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OUWO Exec Committee
The key people behind the scenes of OUWO - get in touch with any questions!
OUWO Socials
