THE WIND BAND IN ALL IT’S FORMATS

Next to the large number of professional symphony orchestras, there are only a few professional wind orchestras. Except for the military wind bands, which can be found in every country. The only professional civil wind band in The Netherlands was the Amsterdam Police Band (1942-1988). Now there is the Sousa Tribute Band.

The hustle and bustle in regards to professional wind bands, is the exact opposite to amateur wind bands. Many wind and percussion players started to play a musical instrument in an amateur wind band. This applies for both the amateur and the professional.

Wind Bands are organised in Music Societies, which play a significant role in the community. Originated in 1770 in The Netherlands, in the province of Brabant to be precise. This is cultural heritage.

The role which Music Societies fulfill in the cultural sector is not to be underestimated. Many received their first music lesson at a Music Society and not at a Music School. This applies to their first concert performance as well. Understandable, since there are 2,000 wind bands in The Netherlands and only 100 Music Schools. We see the same numbers in Belgium.

Well motivated amateurs find their opportunity to perform at a higher level in the national and provincial wind bands. These wind bands are organized in a different way and require a certain level obtained. The Conservatories of Music are for those who want to become a professional musician. Either as a performer, teacher, conductor or composer.

Nowhere in the music sector is the relationship between professional and amateur as strong as in the wind bands. Here we encounter a form of interconnectivity which enables collaboration on stage.

LINKS

Wind Band, Symphonic Wind Orchestra, Concert Band

Fanfare Band & Orchestra

Brassband

Trumpet Corps, Marching Band, Drum & Bugle Corps, Show Band

Tributeband

Organizations