Bay Area Youth Winds
Mission
The mission of Bay Area Youth Winds is to offer middle and high school students an exceptional performance opportunity playing challenge and enriching music. BAY Winds is able to thrive thanks to the quality instruction students receive from their school music program.
Vision
As a cornerstone of the Florida Wind Band organization, our vision is to be the leading youth wind band program in the Tampa Bay Area, igniting a passion for wind band music in young musicians and fostering lifelong support for the art form. We strive to inspire students not only to excel in their musical abilities but also to carry the joy and importance of wind band music throughout their lives and communities.
Your Contribution Lights the Way for Musical Exploration!
Our ensemble continues to grow and thrive by the selfless work of our volunteers and generous support from donations and sponsorships within the community. There are many ways you can make a contribution to support our mission. You can become a monthly donor, make a one-time tax-exempt donation, or join our family of season sponsors available for corporations, individuals, and families by visiting our support page.
Our History
Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds
BAY Winds is Tampa Bay's premier destination for talented middle and high school musicians eager to elevate their musical journey. Founded in 2011 by Dr. Matthew McCutchen and the Florida Wind Band, BAY Winds offers exceptional performance opportunities for intermediate and advanced musicians from Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, and Hernando counties. With expert training and instruction from highly decorated professional musicians and educators, BAY Winds fosters skill development, creativity, and a lifelong passion for music.
Three Unique Opportunities, Every Year
BAY Winds offers three incredible musical experiences each year, providing students with a chance to grow and perform alongside some of the best in the business.
- Autumn Winds (Fall): This short but intensive 8-week program brings middle and high school students together for an exceptional educational experience. Students perform a joint masterworks concert with the Florida Wind Band at the USF School of Music Mainstage Concert Hall.
- Wind Ensemble & Symphonic Winds (Spring): In the spring, these two ensembles rehearse and perform a joint concert with the Florida Wind Band at the USF School of Music Mainstage Concert Hall. This performance features the annual student concerto competition winner, showcasing the incredible talent within BAY Winds.
- Summer Breeze (Summer): Each June, BAY Winds students and alumni return to USF for four rehearsals and a concert that is open to the public. This brings musicians from many ages and ability levels together annually for the sheer joy of playing their instruments and reliving the joy of ensemble music-making. It’s a fun and festive celebration of music, community, and the season.
Whether it’s performing on the concert hall stage or taking part in a spirited summer concert, each opportunity offers a unique, inspiring experience that deepens students’ love for music and nurtures their growth as musicians.