Frequently asked questions
What is Empyrean Winds?
Empyrean Winds is a performance ensemble that competes in the winds division of WGI and AIA. This ensemble is similar to marching band, however performances occur indoors in a basketball gym or arena. Indoor winds seasons typically run from November to April. This activity is also typically more theatrical than marching band or drum corps as the performers are much closer to the audience. For more information on indoor winds, visit wgi.org.
Is there an age requirement to participate?
Anyone over the age of 14 is able to be a member of Empyrean Winds. Per WGI rules, there is no age limit to perform with the group.
How often are rehearsals?
Empyrean Winds rehearses on weekends. The typical times for rehearsals are Fridays: 7 - 10 PM, Saturdays: 9 AM - 9 PM, Sundays: 9 AM - 5 PM. Rehearsals are not held every weekend, however they will become more frequent as the season progresses. For example, in November and December, we typically rehearse one or two weekends each month. Then, we'll meet two or three weekends each month starting in January. Competitions typically begin in late February.
What if I'm involved in other music / after school groups?
Staff members and the directors are aware of the fact that members, especially those in high school, are involved in school music activities and other groups. Although being a member of Empyrean Winds requires a great deal of time and commitment, we understand that school activities come first, and we try to be flexible with members who have a strong desire to be a part of our group. In these cases, communication with the staff members and directors is paramount. We encourage all prospective members to communicate any schedule conflicts and potential schedule conflicts as soon as possible with staff members and directors so that we can be successful as an ensemble.
Where are rehearsals held?
Empyrean Winds rehearsals are held at several different locations throughout the season. A detailed rehearsal schedule with locations will be made available prior to the start of each season.
How much does it cost to participate?
There is zero cost to attend an Empyrean Experience Clinic! The membership tuition for contracted members for the 2022 season will be $400. Payment plans will be made available in the contract.
When are auditions held?
The Empyrean Experience Clinics will serve as our audition process for this season. The dates for the Clinics are November 20, December 4, and December 5. All three days will be 10am - 5 pm with a one hour lunch that will be provided.
Empyrean Winds is a performance ensemble that competes in the winds division of WGI and AIA. This ensemble is similar to marching band, however performances occur indoors in a basketball gym or arena. Indoor winds seasons typically run from November to April. This activity is also typically more theatrical than marching band or drum corps as the performers are much closer to the audience. For more information on indoor winds, visit wgi.org.
Is there an age requirement to participate?
Anyone over the age of 14 is able to be a member of Empyrean Winds. Per WGI rules, there is no age limit to perform with the group.
How often are rehearsals?
Empyrean Winds rehearses on weekends. The typical times for rehearsals are Fridays: 7 - 10 PM, Saturdays: 9 AM - 9 PM, Sundays: 9 AM - 5 PM. Rehearsals are not held every weekend, however they will become more frequent as the season progresses. For example, in November and December, we typically rehearse one or two weekends each month. Then, we'll meet two or three weekends each month starting in January. Competitions typically begin in late February.
What if I'm involved in other music / after school groups?
Staff members and the directors are aware of the fact that members, especially those in high school, are involved in school music activities and other groups. Although being a member of Empyrean Winds requires a great deal of time and commitment, we understand that school activities come first, and we try to be flexible with members who have a strong desire to be a part of our group. In these cases, communication with the staff members and directors is paramount. We encourage all prospective members to communicate any schedule conflicts and potential schedule conflicts as soon as possible with staff members and directors so that we can be successful as an ensemble.
Where are rehearsals held?
Empyrean Winds rehearsals are held at several different locations throughout the season. A detailed rehearsal schedule with locations will be made available prior to the start of each season.
How much does it cost to participate?
There is zero cost to attend an Empyrean Experience Clinic! The membership tuition for contracted members for the 2022 season will be $400. Payment plans will be made available in the contract.
When are auditions held?
The Empyrean Experience Clinics will serve as our audition process for this season. The dates for the Clinics are November 20, December 4, and December 5. All three days will be 10am - 5 pm with a one hour lunch that will be provided.