Winds & Percussion
Wind Ensemble
The KWU Wind Ensemble is dedicated to performing the highest-quality wind band literature, both old and new! This ensemble performs one to two concerts per semester, hosts honor band festivals, performs at university and community functions, and goes on regional tours. In collaboration with the KWU String Orchestra, select members will join the orchestra to perform full-orchestra pieces at concerts.
The Howl of Kansas Wesleyan Pep Band
The Howl is Kansas Wesleyan’s athletic band, performing at events with all-new instruments and a new look. If you’re looking for a high-energy ensemble and something different from a traditional marching band, this is the group for you.
Jazz Ensemble
The KWU Jazz Ensemble is a select ensemble that focuses on jazz techniques and repertoire. The jazz ensemble stays busy by preparing for concerts, festivals and community functions.
Percussion Ensemble
Under the direction of Professor Daniel Albertson, the KWU Percussion Ensemble focuses on performing a wide array of music, from contemporary and traditional works to percussive practices from across the globe. Open to all majors, this ensemble develops chamber music skills and collaboration among members, and frequently brings in guest artists to work with and perform alongside the ensemble.
Marching Band
Beginning in Fall 2026, KWU students will have the opportunity to participate in the university’s new Marching Band program.
Voice
Philharmonic Choir
The Philharmonic Choir is KWU’s larger concert choir. Membership is open to any KWU student, and the ensemble includes students from all areas of academic study. This group tours regionally or nationally each spring and performs a variety of music from classical to contemporary.
Wesleyan Chorale
The Wesleyan Chorale is a select vocal ensemble of 24 students. Auditions are held each fall, and membership requires a one-year commitment. The ensemble performs and entertains in a variety of venues on and off campus throughout the academic year.
Strings
String Orchestra
The KWU String Orchestra performs demanding literature from across the medium. The ensemble is highly active in the community and region.
The KWU SO has garnered state and national recognition in recent years. In 2017, the orchestra was selected for the first time in program history to perform at the Kansas Music Educators Association In-Service Workshop and followed that appearance with a return to KMEA in 2019. The orchestra was honored with the “American Prize” as a Finalist for the 2017-2018 Ernst Bacon Award for Best Performance of American Music – Collegiate Division. The KWU SO enjoys a unique partnership with The Salina Symphony, which, via audition, serves to enhance orchestra members’ string/chamber music experiences with a full-orchestra one.
