Middle school winds & Brass -
Learn to play orchestrally

The DMYS Winds and Brass Academy aims to develop orchestral playing skills in the advancing middle school musician.

Participating musicians can expect to:

• Improve breathing, tone quality and style

• Improve proficiency – work toward being ready to audition into DMYS Concert Orchestra (grades 8-12, with exceptions for advanced 7th graders)

• Listen to and play along with DMYS Concert Orchestra

• Perform in a full orchestra with the DMYS String Orchestra in the spring performance (students demonstrating proficiency at the half-way point will be notified of eligibility)

Winds & Brass Academy eligibility

• Students in grades 6-8 who are in their school band program

• Students must be recommended by a school director or private lesson teacher via form coming soon

• Ideal candidate is a student who is interested in further developing a love for orchestral music alongside other focused musicians. They are motivated, driven, and capable of working toward the highest musical standards possible. They are responsive to feedback and excited to collaborate with fellow musicians to adapt, learn, and grow in their skills and musicianship.  2 years of playing recommended.  

• Students should be comfortable with the following scales at the “Suggested proficiency” level to participate.

KEY Spring 2026 Deadlines:

1/13/26: Educator nomination deadline

1/28/26: student enrollment (Select Orchestral Winds/Brass Academy)

2/7/26: first clinic

Have your Educator nomination and invitation to participate from DMYS? Enroll here now!