The Florida Gulf Coast University Wind Orchestra is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1997. The ensemble is made up of talented musicians who are students at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) in Fort Myers, Florida. The Wind Orchestra is directed by Dr. Rod Chesnutt, who is also the Director of Bands at FGCU. The Wind Orchestra was founded with the goal of providing students with the opportunity to perform challenging and diverse repertoire in a professional setting. The ensemble has since become one of the premier wind ensembles in the state of Florida, and has gained national recognition for its performances. The Wind Orchestra is made up of approximately 50 musicians, including woodwinds, brass, and percussion. The ensemble performs a wide variety of repertoire, including traditional wind band music, contemporary works, and transcriptions of orchestral pieces. The ensemble also frequently collaborates with guest artists and composers. One of the highlights of the Wind Orchestra's history was its performance at the 2013 College Band Directors National Association (CBDNA) National Conference in Greensboro, North Carolina. The ensemble was one of only six university wind ensembles selected to perform at the conference, which is considered one of the most prestigious events in the wind band world. The Wind Orchestra's performance was well-received by both the audience and the panel of judges. In addition to its performance at the CBDNA National Conference, the Wind Orchestra has also performed at numerous other prestigious events and venues. These include the Florida Music Educators Association (FMEA) Conference, the Midwest Clinic in Chicago, and the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. The Wind Orchestra has also received numerous awards and accolades for its performances. In 2012, the ensemble was named the winner of the American Prize in Wind Ensemble Performance, which is a national competition that recognizes excellence in wind band performance. The Wind Orchestra has also been a finalist for the same award in subsequent years. The Wind Orchestra's members have also received individual recognition for their talents. Many members of the ensemble have been selected to perform in prestigious honor bands and orchestras, including the All-State Bands and Orchestras in Florida and other states. The Wind Orchestra's director, Dr. Rod Chesnutt, is a highly respected conductor and educator in the wind band world. He has conducted numerous all-state and honor bands, and has served as a guest conductor and clinician at universities and music festivals throughout the United States. Dr. Chesnutt is also a prolific arranger and composer, and has written numerous works for wind band. In addition to its performances and awards, the Wind Orchestra is also committed to community outreach and education. The ensemble frequently performs at local schools and community events, and members of the ensemble also participate in educational clinics and workshops for young musicians. Overall, the Florida Gulf Coast University Wind Orchestra is a highly respected and accomplished ensemble that has gained national recognition for its performances and dedication to excellence in wind band performance. The ensemble's commitment to diversity and community outreach make it a valuable asset to the music community in Florida and beyond.

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