Wind Symphony

Bethel’s premier wind instrumental ensemble, directed by Steven Thompson, 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. 

Rehearsal Schedule
Monday & Wednesday: 4:20-05:50 p.m.
Tuesday & Thursday: 4:05-5:40 p.m

Sign up for a Wind Symphony audition

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 once a week with performances including the annual spring concert, Jazz in the Great Hall, and Swingin' on the Egg.

Rehearsal Schedule
"The 11:12" Jazz Orchestra - Monday: 3:10-4:10 p.m.
"The 5:40" Jazz Orchestra - Monday: 6-8:30 p.m.

Sign up for a Jazz Orchestra audition

Chamber Ensembles - Winds

Bethel Chamber Wind ensembles, directed by Steven Thompson, 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.

Rehearsal Schedule
Weekly rehearsal times are scheduled according to participating students' schedules. 

Sign up for a Chamber Ensemble audition

Handbell Ensemble

The Bethel Handbell Ensemble 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 a concert each spring in Benson Great Hall.

Rehearsal Schedule
Tuesday: 6-9 p.m.

Sign up for a Handbell Ensemble audition

Questions? 

Contact Steven Thompson, Director of Instrumental Activities