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University College 
Department of Performing Arts and Technology

Concert Bands

The wind ensemble and symphonic band provide opportunities for student-musicians of varying experience levels to perform as members of a concert band. You’ll hone your musical skills, learn a wide variety of music, and connect with students who share your love of music. Join a concert band and continue playing your instrument at NC State.

With [the music department] I have gotten the opportunity to perform alongside amazing musicians from many different musical and personal backgrounds. If my sixth grade self could see me today, she would be so proud of everything I have done with my music here at NC State!

Carlin Spence

Symphonic Band (MUS 135)

The symphonic band is a large concert band that performs traditional and contemporary repertoire for woodwind, brass and percussion instruments.

No audition required. Students who have played their instrument for longer than one year are encouraged to register for the class.

Directed by Mr. Chris Branam

MUS 135 │ Symphonic Band
Tuesdays and Thursdays │ 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m.

Questions? Email Mr. Branam
Photo of the trombone section of the symphonic band performing during a concert.

Wind Ensemble (MUS 134)

This select group of woodwind, brass and percussion instrumentalists performs challenging wind ensemble and traditional concert band repertoire. They perform two concerts each semester, as well as occasional tours. Audition required.

Directed by Dr. Paul Garcia

MUS 134 │ Wind Ensemble
Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays │ 12:50-1:40 p.m.

Questions? Email Dr. Garcia

Faculty

Wind Ensemble

PG
Paul Garcia

Teaching Professor | Director of Bands | Applied Instructor of Percussion | Conductor of Athletic Bands and Wind Ensemble

919.513.4489

Symphonic Band

CB
Chris Branam

Lecturer

919.414.8844

Frequently asked questions

Any student who has been playing their instrument for at least a year may enroll in symphonic band without an audition. It’s a large group that encompasses a wide range of experience levels. The wind ensemble is an auditioned ensemble and a smaller group of experienced musicians.

In addition to your tuition, possible costs include an instrument rental fee of $50 per semester or $90 for the academic year (if needed) and occasional optional travel opportunities, such as international summer tours (for the wind ensemble).

Yes, you do need to enroll in either MUS 134: Wind Ensemble or MUS 135: Symphonic Band in order to participate in a concert band.

No, you don’t have to be in the marching band or any other ensemble in order to enroll in a concert band. But you can audition for and enroll in as many ensembles as you would like, provided they fit in your schedule.

Yes, students in our ensembles can rent an instrument from the department and may request access to an instrument locker in Price Music Center which can be used to store your rental and/or personal instrument. Visit the rentals page for more information and to book your rental appointment.

Other questions?

For questions about the symphonic band, contact Mr. Chris Branam at csbranam@ncsu.edu or 919.513.0888.

For questions about the wind ensemble, contact Dr. Paul Garcia at pdgarcia@ncsu.edu or 919.513.4489.