Music Director: Andrew Uren
With programmes from Armageddon to Scottish Country Dancing, the Auckland Wind Orchestra (AWO) thrives on its versatility. It encourages New Zealand works and gives its players solo opportunities. Founded in 1967 by Hugh Dixon, the band rehearses in Freeman's Bay community centre on Thursday nights. The band’s players come from all walks of life, united by the desire to have fun while making great music. The band always welcomes new musicians of grade 6+. Keen to join? Email the AWO's band manager at awo@aysb.org
I am:
age 18+ (if you're under 18 please consider joining the AYSB)
playing above grade 6 on my instrument
keen to play music with people from across Auckland, who also enjoy playing music
keen to push myself musically
keen to play some cool gigs out in the community
Specifically, if you play one of these instruments we would love to have you on board:
Clarinet
Trumpet
Horn
Trombone
You're still welcome to express interest if your instrument isn't listed above.
There is no formal audition for the AWO. Entry to the orchestra is by a very informal trial period of a few rehearsals after which new players will be welcome to join if both the player and orchestra feel they are a good match.
Note: the final say on joining comes from the MD, Section Leader and/or Concert Master.
Andrew Uren is the Music Director of the Auckland Wind Orchestra. He is a keen performer of all styles and genres of music and dedicates himself tirelessly to promoting the bass clarinet and New Zealand music. He is a founding member of New Zealand’s contemporary ensemble 175 East, which has performed over 200 pieces, of which 50 were written for the group.
Andrew has released a CD on the Atoll record label called Steep Steps, of bass clarinet repertoire. Currently Andrew teaches clarinet and saxophone in several Auckland schools, and plays in shows and other events, as well as directing a number of school bands.