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 UW-Milwaukee Peck School of the Arts lead 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. UWAY alumni hold prominent positions in symphony orchestras, top military bands, collegiate teaching positions, and are leaders many different professional fields!
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 2026 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, May 4, 2026 | 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 | 3–5 p.m. |
| Tuesday, May 5, 2026 | UWM Zelazo Center (Use the ground level parking lot entrance on south side of building) | New and returning members | 6–8 p.m. |
| Thursday, May 7, 2026 | Germantown High School (Enter using the Performing Arts Center lobby on the north side of building) | New members only | 3–5 p.m. |
| Monday, May 11, 2026 | West Allis Nathan Hale High School Band room | New members only | 3–5 p.m. |
| Tuesday, May 12, 2026 | UWM Zelazo Center (Use the ground level parking lot entrance on south side of building) | New and returning members | 6–8 p.m. |
| Sunday, May 17, 2026 | Video Audition Deadline | New and returning members | 11 p.m. |
Woodwinds & Brass Requirements
- 2-octave chromatic scale: Perform a chromatic scale in 2 connected octaves, ascending and descending. You may choose any tempo, rhythm, and articulation pattern. Consistency in tone and technique are key elements being assessed.
- 5-6 minutes of music of your choice: Choose any solo material, etude or study, or even excerpts from your ensemble repertoire that you feel makes you sound your best! We advise finding material that is both expressive and technical. Be musical!
Percussion Requirements
- 2-3 minutes of music (solo/etude/excerpt) that represents your abilities on SNARE. Perform this on a snare drum.
- 2-3 minutes of music (solo/etude/excerpt) that represents your abilities on a KEYBOARD or MALLET instrument.
- 2-3 minutes of music (solo/etude/excerpt) on ANY OTHER percussion instrument. This can be TIMPANI or other PERCUSSION INSTRUMENTS.
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 or Spring “All Star” members | $385 |
| New members | $490 |
| Enrollment in both UWAY and UJAY programs | $700 |
Performances
October 18, 4:00 pm
Youth Wind Ensemble (UWAY) Season Opening Concert
The UW-Milwaukee Youth Wind and Percussion Ensembles program kicks off the 2026-27 Concert Season with this afternoon performance!
December 13, 4:00 pm
Youth Wind Ensemble (UWAY) – Music for the Season
This program by the UW-Milwaukee Youth Wind and Percussion Ensembles program will include selections that we have embraced as tradition on our December concert!
February 28, 2027, 4:00 pm
Youth Wind Ensemble (UWAY) – Connections Concert
This concert by the UW-Milwaukee Youth Wind and Percussion Ensembles program will feature the UWAY "All-Stars" musicians and other special guests!
May 2, 2027, 4:00 pm
Youth Wind Ensemble (UWAY) Celebrations Concert
This program by the UW-Milwaukee Youth Wind and Percussion Ensembles program will feature a performance by our annual UWAY Concerto Competition Winner and celebrate the UWAY Seniors who will graduate this Spring!