Grand Symphonic Winds

Grand Symphonic Winds is a Twin Cities, Minnesota, based wind ensemble with a reputation for excellence, well known for bringing original music to a diverse audience. It strives to expand and redefine the perception of what constitutes a concert band. Over the past twenty-five years, GSW has had the opportunity to perform throughout the Midwest and the USA. It also frequently embarks on international performance tours. Known for performing unique and meaningful music, GSW performances both entertain and educate audiences, and broaden their musical horizons. Composers frequently work with the ensemble and conduct their own works.

Matthew J. George is the John Ireland Distinguished Professor of Music, Director of Bands and Orchestras, and previously held the Chair of the Department of Music for twenty years at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota. He is a past recipient of the Professor of the Year award at UST. In addition, he has held an appointment as Chair and conductor for the Music Education Center at Xi’an Jiaotong University in Xi’an, China. George holds a D.M.A. degree in conducting from the University of North Texas, an M.M. degree in music education from Southern Methodist University, and a B.M. degree in music education and trumpet performance from Ithaca College.