Youth Wind Ensemble UWAY

Dates
Tuesdays, 6:30–8:45 p.m. (Fall, Spring)

Ages
Grades 8–12

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

Scott Corley Headshot
  • Teaching Professor, Instrumental Music Education & Conducting
  • Director, Symphony Band, Panther Pep Band
  • Music Director/Conductor, Youth Wind Ensemble (UWAY)
John Woger Headshot
  • Associate Conductor/Co-Director, Youth Wind Ensemble (UWAY)

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.

UWAY faculty and staff will review submissions and share results with individuals in early June. Accepted musicians will receive membership information, placement audition instructions and payment details during the summer. A Fall placement audition is required of all accepted UWAY musicians on Tuesday, August 26 from 6–8:30 p.m.
DateLocationStudent TypeTime
Monday, April 28, 2025Muskego High School (Enter using glass double-doors #31 on the south side of the building)New members only3:15–4:45 p.m.
Tuesday, May 6, 2025UWM Zelazo Center (Use the ground level parking lot entrance on south side of building)New and returning members6–8 p.m.
Wednesday, May 7, 2025Germantown High School (Enter using the Performing Arts Center lobby on the north side of building)New members only3:15–4:45 p.m.
Thursday, May 8, 2025Oak 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 only3:15–4:45 p.m.
Tuesday, May 13, 2025UWM Zelazo Center (Use the ground level parking lot entrance on south side of building)New and returning members4–6 p.m.
Contact us at uway-info@uwm.edu if none of these dates/times will work and if you want to submit a pre-recorded video audition.

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 TypeCost
Returning members$370
New members$450
Enrollment in both UWAY and UJAY programs$650

Performances


Youth Wind Ensemble UWAY

October 27, 2024, 4:00 pm

UWAY Concert

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.


Youth Wind Ensemble UWAY

December 10, 2024, 7:30 pm

UWAY Concert

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.


Youth Wind Ensemble UWAY

March 2, 4:00 pm

UWAY Concert

The resident members of the UWM Youth Wind and Percussion Ensembles program (UWAY) welcome aspiring members as part of the UWAY “All-Star” Band and share a special concert performance! The area’s finest middle school and high school age woodwind, brass, and percussion students make-up these ensembles and each student is invited to be a part of this exclusive event at UW-Milwaukee.


Youth Wind Ensemble UWAY

May 4, 4:00 pm

UWAY Concert

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.