The North American Wind Symphony

This unique volume posits a bold vision for the future of wind band in North America and a thoughtful analysis of the role music education plays in bringing that vision to fruition. Part 1 presents a detailed and well-reasoned proposal for the founding of the North American Wind Symphony, North America's first full-time professional nonmilitary wind band in the 21st century. Four notable musicians and a former U.S. Secretary of State expand on this proposal with their own thoughts and endorsements.

Part 2 provides a brief history of the National Band Association's Young Composer/Conductor Mentor Project and its impactful legacy, with perspectives offered by three leaders with the project: Mark Camphouse, Paula A. Crider, and Col. Don Schofield. More than a dozen mentees also share their perspectives and experiences.

In Part 3, eleven wind band professionals bring into focus important issues facing music education today and in the future. Topics include educational philosophy, concert programming, racial diversity in school bands, curricula at the collegiate level, and the state of wind band composition, among others. A one-of-a-kind text rooted in the experience, expertise, and imagination of leaders in the wind band field, this an inspirational and timely read for all music educators.