THE BAND

Artistic Vision

Minnesota Winds embraces the rich history and tradition of the concert band art form, celebrates the diverse range of voices creating new band music today, and pushes the boundaries of our genre with innovative commissions and unique concert experiences.

We endeavor to create an inclusive artistic space that welcomes musicians, composers, students, and audiences from all backgrounds to connect and engage with the music and with each other.

KATHERINE BERGMAN,
CO-FOUNDER & ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

Musicians

Guest Conductor, Manny Laureano

Manny served as the very first conductor for Minnesota Winds in the fall of 2024. He is the principal trumpet with the Minnesota Orchestra. He is in great demand as a soloist, clinician, and conductor with bands and orchestras throughout the region. Manny and his wife, Claudette, served as co-artistic directors of the Minnesota Youth Symphonies for 32 years, and Manny is entering his eleventh season as music director of the Bloomington Symphony Orchestra.

He holds a bachelor’s degree from the Juilliard School of Music as well as a second degree black belt in Kenpo. Manny first started playing the trumpet in junior high band in east Harlem in New York City.

Chamber Winds (fall 2024)

  • Roma Duncan, flute

  • Carrie Vecchione, oboe

  • Jennifer Gerth, clarinet

  • Karrin Meffert-Nelson, clarinet

  • Fei Xie, bassoon

  • Alexandra Berndt, bassoon

  • Patrick Pridemore, French horn

  • Alexander Henton, French horn

  • Lynn Erickson, trumpet

  • Phillip Ostrander, trombone

  • Eri Isomura, percussion

About the Ensemble

Minnesota Winds is bringing world-class concert band music to the main stage. Our values include creating community, engaging students, advocating for school band programs, and building an exciting, inclusive future for the concert band art form. Our repertoire includes a diverse selection of historical and contemporary works for concert band. Auditions are now open through June 1, 2025! Click here for all the details »