Our Mission
Miami Wind Symphony’s mission is to elevate the standards of wind and percussion ensemble music through performance, promotion, and education.
Through our unwavering commitment to excellence, we aim to inspire audiences and musicians alike, fostering a deeper appreciation for the beauty and versatility of wind and percussion music.
Our mission is achieved through three key pillars
Together, through performance, promotion, and education, we aim to enrich lives and celebrate the beauty of wind and percussion music in Miami and beyond.
Performance
Miami Wind Symphony exemplifies the highest artistic standards of performance. We accomplish this through performing an annual concert series, featuring full symphonic band and chamber music performances. Our musicians are our region’s most outstanding wind and percussion professional musicians. Each season consists of four to six unique programs, with each program designed to appeal to a broad audience.
Promotion
Through strategic partnerships with organizations and institutions whose missions are aligned with ours, Miami Wind Symphony collaborates with proven & promising composers and arrangers to expand the concert band and wind & percussion chamber music repertoire. The rich tradition of wind & percussion music, from Ralph Vaughn Williams through Clifton Williams, from John Philip Sousa through John Barnes Chance, from Mozart through Maslanka, must be expanded through commissions of established and promising composers and arrangers.
Education
At the Miami Wind Symphony, we believe music changes lives. Most of our musicians began their journey in local South Florida band rooms, and we are dedicated to supporting the next generation of students and directors who follow in those footsteps.
To invest in our community's musical future, we are proud to offer free tickets for those currently teaching or studying music.
For educational opportunites please contact Alain Rodriguez, our Education Director:
Therefore, Miami Wind Symphony will accomplish this mission though strategic educational outreach,
consisting of:
Masterclasses
Miami Wind Symphony exemplifies the highest artistic standards of performance. We accomplish this through performing an annual concert series, featuring full symphonic band and chamber music performances. Our musicians are our region’s most outstanding wind and percussion professional musicians. Each season consists of four to six unique programs, with each program designed to appeal to a broad audience.
Miami Wind Symphony
Honor Band
An annual honor band comprised of students primarily from the Greater South Florida region and beyond.
Miami Wind Symphony
Maestros Academy
An ongoing mentorship and support entity, with expert musician teachers supporting our local school-based band directors. Support activities will include but not be limited to providing guest conductors / clinicians, directors’ clinics, and peer-to-peer constructive feedback mentoring.
Our Founder
Rodester Brandon Jr.
(1958-2021)
The Miami Wind Symphony honors the legacy of our founder, Rodester Brandon Jr. a visionary educator, mentor, and musician who knew music was a powerful vehicle for impacting and changing lives.
A Visionary Leader
Founded by Rodester in 2010, the Miami Wind Symphony was born from his desire to create a professional ensemble that would not only provide a high level of artistry for the South Florida community, but also serve as a vital source of mentorship for young musicians. He lived by a "people first" philosophy, consistently championing local talent and ensuring our organization remained deeply connected to the unique culture of our community.
A Legacy of Excellence & Mentorship
Throughout his distinguished career, Rodester inspired thousands of students at Homestead Senior High School, Atlantic High School, New World School of the Arts, and Miami-Dade College. His unwavering dedication to hard work, consistency, and excellence transformed every program he led.
Rodester's influence resonates deeply throughout our executive team and our entire organization. Rodester showed us what it meant to lead with purpose, generosity, and passion, earning the profound respect and admiration of colleagues and students alike.
Family and Continuing Mission
Rodester's devotion remains a true family effort. Rodester’s wife, Charlene, and his daughter, Danielle, serve on our board, contributing in a variety of vital ways as they have done for many years. We are deeply thankful for their continued support, guidance, and devotion in perpetuating his legacy.
Remembering His Spirit
We remember Rodester not only for his exceptional musicianship and leadership on the podium, but for his infectious joy, his "million-dollar" smile, and his steadfast commitment to helping others succeed. He is remembered as a mentor, friend and a family man. While he has left us physically, his legacy continues through the lives he touched and the music that remains in our hearts.
One of Rodester's final quotes was: "If I made a difference, it will be seen through my work."
We are proud to carry that work forward today.
The Miami Wind Symphony was there, we listened, and we remain inspired.
Miami Wind Symphony Staff and Board of Directors
Artistic Director
Maestro Stephen K. Rivero
Executive Director
Armando Alicandu
Education Director
Alain Rodriguez
Personnel Director
Christine Pascual-Fernandez
Chairman of the Board
Lee Michael Morrison
Board Members
Charlene Brandon
Danielle Brandon
Jessica Amores
Matthew Leone
Christine Pascual-Fernandez
Jesse Phillipe-Auguste
Dr. Brian C. Wuttke