Woodwinds

Woodwinds, the most tonally diverse group of instruments, find themselves equally at home in concert band, orchestra, chamber music, solo performance and jazz. The woodwinds, with their flexibility and variety, are well utilized at Pittsburg State University. Students interested in advanced study on woodwind instruments have available a program of courses that encourage musical growth and curiosity.

Performance Opportunities

Pittsburg State University affords woodwind students the opportunity to perform in a variety of ensembles: Concert Band, Marching Band, Pep Band, Orchestra, and Jazz Ensembles. Students also have ample opportunity to perform solo and chamber music repertoire on the weekly Student Recital Hour, Studio class and other individually scheduled recitals. Chamber music ensembles such as woodwind choirs, quintets, quartets and trios are formed to expand the musical experience and may be taken for credit.  Two annual competitions held at Pittsburg State are the Concerto and Aria Competition and the Waddill Chamber Music Competition. Student winners of the Concerto and Aria Competition perform as the soloist with the Southeast Kansas Symphony, while winners of the Waddill Chamber Music Competition perform on the convocation ceremony held in May.

Studio and Reed Classes

Woodwind faculty teach classes in reed making and reed adjustment for single and double reed students.  Applied studio classes explore, examine and discuss performance practice; orchestral, solo and chamber literature; repertoire; historical and acoustical aspects of the instruments; stage deportment and other important topics such as performance anxiety and healthy practice habits to help avoid repetitive stress injuries. Informal performances are also a part of the studio class where music students receive immediate feedback and constructive comments about performances from their peers and guest clinicians.

Private Study

Applied lessons are “one-on-one” and custom tailored to suit individual student needs and abilities. Instruction includes the basic fundamentals of performing and interpreting musical styles and notations. Private lessons are offered weekly to help students acquire the necessary skills and competencies to meet today’s professional demands in the careers of teaching and performing. While a part of the degree requirement for music majors and minors, lessons may be available to non-majors with special permission of the instructor.

PSU Woodwind Graduates

Graduates of Pittsburg State University's Woodwind Program are employed across the country as successful public school teachers, college professors, freelance musicians, and symphony orchestra musicians.

Scholarships

In addition to receiving stipends for Marching Band and Pep Band, qualified students may apply and audition for Music Department Scholarships. The University administers a major financial aid program that includes other scholarships, grants, and loans.

Meet Our Woodwind Faculty

Dr. Joanne Britz - Clarinet/Saxophone

Mr. John Atteberry - Bassoon

Dr. Christina Webster - Flute