Roma Duncan: Why I joined Minnesota Winds

I wonder how many professional wind players start their musical story with a great band experience? 

I have fond memories of my school bands and an incredible mentor in my band director from high school, but I’m missing a few of the elements that most American musicians experience. Growing up in small towns in Canada, I was never part of a large band program. And my marching experience was limited to a few parades where I played the glockenspiel alongside bagpipers. It was different from “Stars and Stripes,” to be sure.

When my friend and colleague, Karrin Meffert-Nelson, reached out to talk about a new project she was involved with (Minnesota Winds), I was intrigued to learn more about it, and honestly to learn more about Minnesota band culture. Attending high school concerts to support my students over the years, I’ve been blown away by the robust band program in my own community. Of course, the students are reaping the many rewards that come from studying an instrument, like focus, patience, and self-expression. On top of that, they have this incredible, accepting community, with a real sense of ownership and accountability. And frankly, they’re having so much fun.

In our discussion about Minnesota Winds, Karrin described a creative plan to extend band culture to the main stage, and to provide a new resource for music students and educators by establishing a professional band. There is a great opportunity to support the many thriving band programs we have in our schools and colleges, as well as to assist those programs that are less-developed. Karrin and I had a fantastic conversation, and I participated in the inaugural Minnesota Winds concerts a few months later. 

I’m so fortunate that I play multiple concerts almost every week. And there’s something new that surprises or moves or inspires me every single time. I believe that’s the most wonderful gift that live performance gives us, both performers and audience members. When I performed with Minnesota Winds, what I loved most was the joy. Here was an organization with something utterly positive to say, with an exuberance to celebrate this music, and with the passion to build something new.

I’m honored to play as a musician, support this organization personally, and serve on the Board of Directors. We’re excited to invite you to be part of our first season, full of music and full of joy. Thank you for joining us on this journey, and I can’t wait to see where it takes us.

Roma in marching band (middle of the photo with the glockenspiel)