UWAY provides the regions finest woodwind, brass, and percussion students the opportunity to rehearse and perform the best of traditional and contemporary repertoire in an artistic environment with other likeminded musicians. Students are led by artist-faculty from UW-Milwaukee, and work closely with other musical members of the university community.
UWAY musicians are enrolled in grades eight through twelve and are actively involved in their school band/music program. Artist-faculty from the Peck School of the Arts at UW-Milwaukee lead UWAY rehearsals and performances. They work closely with other members of the university’s vibrant performing arts community to help student musicians further their skills by learning and performing in the university setting. Band directors and private teachers throughout southeastern Wisconsin provide additional instructional support to UWAY.
Directors
- Teaching Professor, Instrumental Music Education & Conducting
- Director, Symphony Band, Panther Pep Band
- Music Director/Conductor, Youth Wind Ensemble (UWAY)
- scorley@uwm.edu
- 414-229-5641
- Zelazo Center for the Performing Arts 342
Registration & Spring 2025 Acceptance Auditions
Returning UWAY musicians will participate in spring acceptance auditions to affirm their continuation in the program. This same audition procedure is available to new members. Auditions may be performed live at one of the locations below or by sharing a pre-recorded video link on the audition sign-up form.
| Date | Location | Student Type | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday, April 28, 2025 | Muskego High School (Enter using glass double-doors #31 on the south side of the building) | New members only | 3:15–4:45 p.m. |
| Tuesday, May 6, 2025 | UWM Zelazo Center (Use the ground level parking lot entrance on south side of building) | New and returning members | 6–8 p.m. |
| Wednesday, May 7, 2025 | Germantown High School (Enter using the Performing Arts Center lobby on the north side of building) | New members only | 3:15–4:45 p.m. |
| Thursday, May 8, 2025 | Oak Creek High School (Enter through Door #18 at the north end of building and take the stairs to the upper-level band room) | New members only | 3:15–4:45 p.m. |
| Tuesday, May 13, 2025 | UWM Zelazo Center (Use the ground level parking lot entrance on south side of building) | New and returning members | 4–6 p.m. |
Requirements
- Chromatic scale – A two-octave chromatic scale (any starting pitch), performed both ascending and descending. Rhythm or articulation patterns may be determined by the musician. Additional range may be demonstrated if reflective of a musician’s more mature abilities.
- Solo – Any portion(s) from a standard solo or étude, preferably with contrasting musical sections. A recent solo from solo/ensemble festival preparation is ideal. Please perform approximately three to four minutes of music.
- Percussionists – No chromatic scale required. Prepare two short solos/excerpts that demonstrate your abilities on snare drum plus one other area of percussion performance (mallets, timpani, accessories, etc.).
Tuition & Scholarships
We are glad to assist applicants with reduced registration (scholarship) as demonstrated through stated financial need. Please complete the UWAY Scholarship Form for consideration. Details and due dates will be sent along with UWAY acceptance mailings. Payments are non-refundable.
| Student Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Returning members | $370 |
| New members | $450 |
| Enrollment in both UWAY and UJAY programs | $650 |
Performances
October 19, 2025, 4:00 pm
The UW-Milwaukee Youth Wind and Percussion Ensembles program ("UWAY") will present a concert of chamber ensemble pieces and repertoire for a large, symphonic wind-band.
December 14, 2025, 4:00 pm
The UW-Milwaukee Youth Wind and Percussion Ensembles program ("UWAY") presents a program of contemporary and traditional symphonic band and wind ensemble repertoire. This concert will include some season favorites that are a UWAY tradition!
March 1, 4:00 pm
The UW-Milwaukee Youth Wind and Percussion Ensembles program ("UWAY") presents a program of contemporary and traditional symphonic band and wind ensemble repertoire. We welcome members of the 2026 UWAY "All-Star" Band in this shared performance!
May 3, 4:00 pm
The UW-Milwaukee Youth Wind and Percussion Ensembles program ("UWAY") presents a program of contemporary and traditional symphonic band and wind ensemble repertoire. This concert will feature the winner of our annual UWAY Concerto Competition and recognize all of the talented graduating Seniors in the program!