About the Pennsylvania Symphonic Winds

Founded in 2008 by Phil Evans, the Pennsylvania Symphonic Winds (PSW) was created with the vision of providing an outlet for accomplished local musicians to perform exemplary music for the people of the Philadelphia area, while at the same time educating the public in the different genres of music.

Comprised of woodwind, brass and percussion players, the ensemble performs a wide array of music including classical favorites, 21st-century masterpieces, beloved showtunes and original compositions. The group endeavors to provide a consummate musical experience for all audiences from seasoned and discerning listeners to the musical layman.

The PSW is in a transition year after our director moved his family back to the UK. We are restructuring with a new rehearsal area, new temporary directors, and still planning on performing two annual concerts. Since its debut the PSW has performed concerts in the Philadelphia area entertaining audiences of all ages and all walks of life.

The group does not hold open auditions and has a limited number of seats available. Prospective members are admitted only after demonstrating the high level of musicianship required of all its performers. If you are interested in joining the PSW, please contact our President Ted Lenthe for more information.

The PSW is comfortable and effective performing in a variety of venues, the most suitable being concert halls and theaters. It is also well suited to participate in and enhance fund raising events.

The Beginnings 

Phil Evans founded the PSW in August 2008 when he assembled 45 musicians gathered from various local bands and ensembles. This group met once a week for 6 weeks in order to perform a benefit concert on September 28, 2008, to raise funds for the Valley Forge Military Academy Band to travel to England to play for the Queen.

Since its humble beginnings, the Band has grown in both size and stature as its reputation for excellence has enticed highly skilled musicians from all over the Philadelphia area.

The Performers 

The performers at the debut concert were:
Flute: Ray Brebach, Anne Bussard, Ro Hinkle Oboe: Rachel Edwards Clarinet: Leslie Burnick, Bob Blacksberg, Chrissy Hower, Timothy Mullen, Jimmy Delikanty, Lois Babbitt, John Frank, Tara Holahan, Kristin Webber Bass Clarinet: Al SkipperAlto Saxophone: Jim McGlinchey, Pam Corner Tenor Saxophone: Tom Alessi, Kathy Zubko Bari Saxophone: Bill DiabiaseBassoon: Julia Fickes Horn: Lindsey Keck, Rachel Braddick, Diane Frank, David Reif Trumpet: John Shaw, Marty Holahan, Joe Deaugustine, Ginny Lockwood, Steve Glanzmann, Ryan Frasch, Bill Zubko, Ray Richards Trombone: Karen Marvin, Brandon Sciarra, George Kerrick, Josh Fickes Euphonium: Mary Beth Kait Tuba: Jim Hicks, Eric Krute Percussion: Brian Patishnock, Jeannine Maddox, Bob Kirchner, Peter Chorbajian