About BSW
Birmingham Symphonic Winds was established in 1992 by its Musical Director, Keith Allen, to meet the large demand of players in the area wanting to perform with a high quality wind ensemble. Since then it has gained both a national and international reputation as one of the leading wind ensembles of its kind in the UK.
This 45 strong orchestra is a complementary mix of players living and working in Birmingham, whilst others travel from different parts of the UK to participate with the ensemble.
BSW has received numerous accolades for its performances spanning the last 14 years. These include a Gold Award at the Finals of the National Concert Band Festival and gala concerts at the Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester in both 1999 and 2004. BSW has represented the UK on several occasions including the WASBE Conference (World Association of Symphonic Bands and Ensembles) held in Schladming, Austria and at the 4th International Wind Band Festival in Strasbourg, gaining first prize.
BSW was the first ever UK ensemble to perform at the prestigious Midwest Clinic, Chicago in December 2003. This concert to over 2000 people promoted British contemporary wind orchestra repertoire to the "world stage" with soloists Linda Merrick (clarinet) and Simone Rebello (percussion), together with guest conductor Guy Woolfenden. Most recently, BSW have been invited to perform at the WASBE Conference in Killarney, Ireland in July 2007.
BSW promotes its own themed concert series at the CBSO Centre, Birmingham, home to the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. These concerts have included distinguished soloists including Alison Balsom (trumpet), Robert Childs (euphonium), Graig Ogden (guitar), and the broadcaster Richard Baker and actor John Nettles.
BSW has performed over 250 different pieces of music, including a number of premiere performances, in more than 25 different venues in the UK, USA and Europe. In 2001, BSW presented a special 80th birthday concert for Sir Malcolm Arnold, in the presence of the composer.
Birmingham Symphonic Winds is delighted to be supported by Hortons' Estate Limited