The Atlanta Wind Symphony
The Atlanta Wind Symphony (“AWS”) is an adult community wind ensemble of approximately 60 players who share a common goal of delivering inspiring performances of quality wind band literature. Members are volunteers and have a variety of vocations, including professional musician, educator, attorney, pilot, engineer, and business executive. To maintain balanced instrumentation, the number of players in each section is managed through auditions. The AWS is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.
The Atlanta Wind Symphony was founded in 1979 as the North Fulton Community Band. Over its 40-year history the group has evolved into one of the finest community wind ensembles in the Southeast. The group has performed at Carnegie Hall in New York City and at four Georgia Music Educators Association conventions. The John Philip Sousa Foundation awarded the AWS the Sudler Silver Scroll, North America's most prestigious award for community concert bands. Well-known composers of wind band literature have served as guest conductors, including Alfred Reed, James Curnow, Elliot del Borgo, and Eric Osterling.
Dr. David Kehler, Director of Bands and Professor of Music at Kennesaw State University, is the Atlanta Wind Symphony’s current Music Director and Conductor. Under his leadership, the AWS is building on its rich history to make even greater contributions to the Atlanta music scene by performing in venues throughout the metro area, collaborating with other area musical organizations, and expanding its educational outreach programs.
