Embedded Files
The Knightwind Ensemble has been performing for Milwaukee (WI) audiences since 1956. Begun as a youth activity sponsored by the Milwaukee Elks Lodge No. 46, the group has evolved into Milwaukee's premier adult wind band. Presenting substantive and challenging programs, the Knightwind Ensemble continually strives to bring high quality concert experiences to its audiences.
The Ensemble has commissioned two significant works. Imprints was given its world premiere in 1989. Another work was commissioned with other groups, David Maslanka's powerful musical statement Tears. Knightwind gave the North American premiere of Ferrer Ferran's Symphony No. 3 "The Great Spirit" in 2019. Our most recent premiere was performed during our Spring 2024 concert, the world premiere of Symphony No. 1, “Annapurna” by Brooke Pierson.
Over the years Knightwind has also featured wonderful local solo artists, including Ann Lobotzke - Harp, Dr. Barry Benjamin - French Horn, and the Newberry Brass Quintet. In addition, the Ensemble has hosted nationally respected artists including conductors Dr. Mallory Thompson and Dr. Todd Fiegel, euphonium virtuoso Luis Maldonado, trombonist Dr. William Richardson, Dr. Patrick Sheridan, former principal tubist with the U.S. Marine Corps Band, Kathryn Mantoan, soprano, and Francesca McNeeley (cello) with Sergio Pallottelli (flute).
In 2005, the John Phillip Sousa Foundation recognized the Knightwind Ensemble as one of the nations best community bands when it awarded the Sudler Silver Scroll to the Ensemble. The goal of the award is "to identify, recognize and honor those community bands that have demonstrated particularly high standards of excellence in concert activities over a period of several years, and which have played a significant and leading role in the cultural and musical environment in their respective communities".
The Knightwind Ensemble, comprised of about 60 musicians representing a variety of backgrounds, continues to play a diverse musical repertoire, ranging from classic chamber pieces to contemporary full wind band literature. Our concert season is from September to May, with time off in the summer.
Historical Timeline
1956 - The group started as the Milwaukee Elks Youth Band and performed in concert, parade, and field show performances and competitions.
1969 - Milwaukee Elks Youth Band split into 2 groups: Band of the Catholic Knights and the Milwaukee Area Youth Band. Both groups continued to perform in concert, parade, and field show performances and competitions.
1976 - The two bands merged back together to form the Milwaukee Knights Band. The Milwaukee Knights Band continued to perform in concert, parade, and field show performances and competitions. The group continued to participate in marching and concert competitions until 1982-83 and to march in civic parades until 1986.
1986 to Present - The name was officially changed to the Knightwind Ensemble, Ltd. in 1986 with a singular focus on concert performance of wind ensemble repertoire.
The organization has known only a handful of music directors, to include: George Zoske, Jim Walker, Wayne Becker, John Steinke, and currently Dr. Erik Janners. Music directors for the Milwaukee Area Youth Band include: Robert Awe and Michael Poytinger.
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