The Southern Methodist University Wind Ensemble is a renowned classical music ensemble that has been entertaining audiences for over 50 years. Founded in 1967, the ensemble has become one of the most respected and accomplished wind ensembles in the United States. The ensemble was founded by Dr. James Rives-Jones, who served as the director of bands at Southern Methodist University from 1966 to 1986. Dr. Rives-Jones had a vision of creating a wind ensemble that would showcase the talents of the university's top wind and percussion students. He wanted to create a group that would perform challenging and innovative music, and that would push the boundaries of what a wind ensemble could do. Under Dr. Rives-Jones' leadership, the Southern Methodist University Wind Ensemble quickly became known for its exceptional musicianship and innovative programming. The ensemble's members were drawn from the university's top music students, and they were known for their technical proficiency and musical sensitivity. Over the years, the Southern Methodist University Wind Ensemble has performed at some of the most prestigious venues in the world, including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Royal Albert Hall in London. The ensemble has also performed at numerous music festivals, including the Midwest Clinic, the Texas Music Educators Association Convention, and the National Band Association Convention. One of the highlights of the Southern Methodist University Wind Ensemble's history was its performance at the 1987 Midwest Clinic. The ensemble was invited to perform at the prestigious music festival, which is considered one of the most important events in the wind band world. The ensemble's performance was widely praised, and it helped to cement the group's reputation as one of the top wind ensembles in the country. Another notable performance by the Southern Methodist University Wind Ensemble was its 1992 performance at the Texas Music Educators Association Convention. The ensemble performed a program of challenging and innovative music, including works by John Adams, Michael Daugherty, and David Maslanka. The performance was widely praised by critics and educators, and it helped to establish the ensemble as a leader in the wind band world. Over the years, the Southern Methodist University Wind Ensemble has won numerous awards and accolades. The ensemble has been recognized by the National Band Association, the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers, and the John Philip Sousa Foundation, among others. The ensemble has also been featured on several recordings, including a critically acclaimed album of music by David Maslanka. Today, the Southern Methodist University Wind Ensemble continues to be a leader in the wind band world. The ensemble is led by Dr. Kevin Sedatole, who has served as the director of bands at Southern Methodist University since 2018. Dr. Sedatole is a highly respected conductor and educator, and he has led the ensemble to new heights of musical excellence. The Southern Methodist University Wind Ensemble remains committed to performing challenging and innovative music, and to pushing the boundaries of what a wind ensemble can do. The ensemble's members are drawn from the university's top music students, and they continue to be known for their technical proficiency and musical sensitivity.

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