Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

San Antonio Community Wind Ensemble (SACWE)

Is an audition required to join?

No audition is required for adults (18 and older)!

Our mission is to provide high-quality performance opportunities in a welcoming and inclusive environment. As long as you are comfortable reading music and have experience on your instrument, we'd love to have you join us.

High school students are welcome to participate by audition only. This ensures they are prepared for the musical demands of the ensemble.

Chairs, music stands, and percussion equipment are provided. Simply bring your instrument, a pencil, and your passion for making music!

What if you already have too many players on my instrument?

We welcome musicians on all wind, brass, and percussion instruments, even when sections are large.

Having multiple musicians on a part creates a fuller ensemble sound while providing opportunities for mentoring, musical growth, and community. Occasionally, if a section becomes exceptionally large, we may rotate parts or seating to provide the best musical experience for everyone.

If you are interested in joining, simply complete the membership form on our website or email sacwe@satpaa.org.

When and where are rehearsals?

Rehearsals begin Sunday, September 20, 2026

Time: 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM

Location:
Texas A&M University–San Antonio
Auditorium

We perform five concerts each season and typically rehearse weekly throughout the concert cycle.

Can I join at any time?

Yes!

New members are welcome throughout the season whenever there is adequate time to prepare for an upcoming performance. While joining at the beginning of a concert cycle is ideal, we encourage interested musicians to contact us at any time.

Who performs in SACWE?

Our members come from every walk of life, including:

• College students

• Music educators

• Professional musicians

• Military musicians (active duty and retired)

• Community musicians

• Adults returning to music after many years

• Dedicated amateur performers

Our ensemble is deliberately diverse and fully inclusive, united by a shared love of music and community.

What type of music do you perform?

The San Antonio Community Wind Ensemble performs advanced wind band literature including:

• Contemporary wind band works

• Classic concert band repertoire

• Major orchestral transcriptions

• Marches

• Film music

• Holiday concerts

• Pops programming

• Educational masterworks

Each concert is designed to challenge our musicians while entertaining audiences throughout San Antonio.

Can I see the music before deciding to join?

Absolutely!

Prospective members may request access to the current concert repertoire to determine if the music is a good fit.

Simply email sacwe@satpaa.org, and we'll be happy to help.

How do you communicate with members?

We keep members informed through:

• Email announcements

• Google Drive for music distribution

• Online rehearsal schedules

• Website updates

• Facebook and Instagram

• Group communication platforms during the season

Members receive rehearsal reminders, concert information, practice resources, and organizational updates.

Can I perform as a soloist?

Yes!

The San Antonio Community Wind Ensemble welcomes opportunities to feature outstanding members as soloists when programming allows.

Members may also recommend original compositions, chamber works, or special projects for consideration by the music staff.

San Antonio Jazz Collective (SAJC)

Is an audition required?

No audition is required for adult musicians.

We ask that members have previous experience performing jazz and be comfortable reading jazz notation and chord changes appropriate for their instrument.

Our goal is to create a challenging yet welcoming ensemble for musicians who enjoy performing big band jazz.

When and where are rehearsals?

Rehearsals begin Thursday, October 1, 2026

Time: 6:30pm-8:30pm

Location:
Texas A&M University–San Antonio

The Jazz Collective performs five concerts each season.

What style of music do you perform?

Our repertoire includes:

• Swing

• Big Band Classics

• Latin Jazz

• Funk

• Contemporary Jazz

• Jazz Rock

• Bebop

• Holiday Jazz

• Original arrangements

Programming ranges from traditional favorites to exciting modern works.

Can I join if you already have my instrument?

Absolutely.

Although some sections may be larger than others, we encourage interested musicians to reach out. Openings become available throughout the season, and substitute opportunities are often available.

Who performs with the Jazz Collective?

Our members include:

• Music educators

• College students

• Professional musicians

• Military musicians

• Weekend performers

• Jazz enthusiasts from throughout South Texas

Everyone shares one common goal: creating exceptional jazz performances while building community through music.

Can I see the music before joining?

Yes.

Prospective members may request information about the current concert cycle and repertoire by emailing jazz@satpaa.org.

How do members receive information?

Members receive updates through:

• Email

• Digital music folders

• Online rehearsal schedules

• Social media

• Website announcements

Can I be featured as a soloist?

Yes!

Jazz is built on improvisation and individual artistry. Members are regularly featured during performances, and outstanding soloists are encouraged to showcase their talents.

Have More Questions?

We're always happy to help!

San Antonio Community Wind Ensemble
📧 sacwe@satpaa.org

San Antonio Jazz Collective
📧 jazz@satpaa.org

🌐 Website: www.satpaa.org

We look forward to making music with you!