Dallas Wind Symphony

The Dallas Wind Symphony boasts some of the most talented musicians in Dallas, has more than a dozen recordings to its name (three with Grammy nominations), and has played for some 1 million patrons, including the Queen of England. But that doesn’t mean it takes itself too seriously. Whether it’s conductor Jerry Junkin cracking jokes on stage, a series of promos featuring sock puppets named Frank and Ludwig, or just the program of powerful, high-energy music, the DWS always finds a way to keep people entertained. The group was first organized in 1985 as a way for music teachers, band directors, and other freelance musicians to play ensemble pieces as they had in school. DWS gained repute after a few performances around town, and by 1990 it had a full schedule of concerts at the Meyerson Symphony Center, where it still performs today. Comprising 50 woodwind, brass, and percussion players, the DWS holds one concert per month during a season that runs from September to April. There’s also usually an American-themed program on Independence Day.