NDSU Wind Symphony

The North Dakota State University Wind Symphony traces its roots back over 100 years in the legacy of NDSU’s Gold Star Band and its founder, Dr. C.S. Putnam. Over the years, the band has developed a rich tradition of excellence that continues to this day.

The band’s repertoire ranges from the contemporary to the traditional, including commission of new works for the wind band by many of the finest composers of our time. Comprised of both music majors and non-majors, members of the NDSU Wind Symphony come from a wide array of backgrounds and disciplines.

Under the direction of Dr. Daniel Lee, students work tirelessly from practice room to the concert hall to create musical artistry for audiences across the region.

NDSU Wind Symphony Audition Information – Spring 2025

Who Needs to Audition

All instrumental music majors and minors will need to audition for placement in ensembles (you will be placed in Symphony Orchestra, Wind Symphony, or University Band). Any non-music major wanting to play in Symphony Orchestra and/or Wind Symphony will also need to audition. Non-music majors do not have to audition if they intend to play in University Band.

Audition Sign-Ups

For Spring ensembles, some auditions will take place before Winter Break, and some will happen within the first few days of the start of Spring semester, depending on the instrument you play. In the shared Google folder (linked at the bottom of this page), open the file labeled “Instrumental Auditions Signup – Spring 2025” and click on the tab with your instrument listed. Put your name, instrument, and email address in any of the available time slots that work for you.

Please do not remove or alter another student’s signup, unless you’ve worked out a change with them. Instructor names and email addresses are listed on these sheets. Some instructors are still choosing their audition dates, so “TBD” will be listed until those are confirmed. Please check back every few days if that’s the case.

Audition Repertoire

Audition repertoire can also be found in the shared Google folder. Again, “TBD” will be placed there until Dr. Lee receives the audition repertoire from instructors. Please download your excerpts to a personal device or print on your own. Plan on bringing your own copy (on paper or on your device) into the room for auditions.

Day of Auditions

On the day of your audition, please make sure you are warmed up and ready to play as soon as you enter the room. Although there are signup times, auditions often run a little ahead or behind, so it may be a good idea to check on how the room is doing when you first arrive, before your warm-up.

While waiting in line outside the audition room, it’s fine if you talk quietly with others or finger through things; just please don’t play your instrument or speak loudly. Again, make sure you have your own copy of the music ready in case your audition room doesn’t have a copy for you. Feel free to dress casually/comfortably.

Audition Results

Audition results for each instrument will be shared as they become available, and will be sent to the email address you list on the sign-up sheet. Depending on your ensemble assignment, your music may be ready to pick up before Winter Break.

Audition Music for the Wind Symphony may be downloaded at the following web address:

Wind Symphony Audition Material

If you have any questions, contact Dr. Lee at daniel.lee.3@ndsu.edu.