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Steven Thompson: Director of Instrumental Activities

Fall 2023 Audition Information

Band auditions for Fall 2023 will be via submitted video auditions. Complete the Fall 2023 Band Audition Form for detailed audition information. Audition submissions are due by Sunday, August 28, at 11:00 p.m.

Contact Jason Harms for Jazz Orchestra information and an audition time.

Sign up for a Handbell Ensemble audition online. Contact Kevin Shull if you have any questions.

Wind Symphony

Bethel’s premier wind instrumental ensemble provides a challenging musical opportunity for the experienced instrumental musician. The Bethel Wind Symphony participates in all of Bethel’s major festivals and tours annually throughout the United States and every fourth year overseas. 

Jazz Orchestras

The Bethel Jazz Orchestras, directed by Jason Harms, explore the unique American art form of jazz, performing pieces from the original repertoire of Ellington, Basie, Mingus, Gillespie, and others. Two jazz orchestras each rehearse twice a week with performances including the annual spring concert Jazz in the Great Hall and Swingin’ at the Lake in the Como Lakeside Pavilion.

The Bethel Jazz Orchestra and Chamber Orchestra strings collaborated during Fall 2020 to create a 3-song EP now available on your favorite music platform.

Chamber Winds

Bethel Chamber Winds provide an opportunity to develop self-expression through performance of wind chamber music. Ensemble groupings vary from year to year and have included a flute quartet, trombone quartet, brass choir, woodwind quintet, and percussion ensemble. Each group meets once a week for private coaching and requires an additional weekly non-coached rehearsal. It’s open to members of the Bethel Wind Symphony by placement audition.

Handbell Ensemble

The Bethel Handbell Ensemble, directed by Kevin Shull, is open by audition—experience is helpful, but not required. The ensemble rehearses once per week on Tuesday evenings and performs on 5+ octaves of handbells and 5 octaves of handchimes. Opportunities to perform in trios and quartets are also available. The group regularly participates in Festival of Christmas and performs in the Twin Cities and surrounding area.