For more than 30 years, the Capital Region Wind Ensemble has proudly presented its annual Side-by-Side Concert, bringing together outstanding high school musicians from across the region to rehearse and perform alongside CRWE members.
This year’s participants represent Albany, Guilderland, Johnstown, Monroe-Woodbury, Niskayuna, Schenectady, Shaker, Shenendehowa, and Waterford-Halfmoon High Schools. Students are nominated by their band directors—many of whom perform with CRWE—reflecting a tradition of mentorship and musical excellence.
In addition to full ensemble rehearsals and performance, students take part in sectionals led by CRWE principal players and engage in masterclasses with professional musicians and the featured soloist.
This year’s guest artist, baritone saxophonist Brad Hubbard, is an internationally active composer and multi-instrumentalist. Performing on saxophone, flute, and bass clarinet, he premiered his Concerto for Baritone Saxophone in 2024 and appears regularly with leading jazz and chamber ensembles. He also serves as a woodwind instructor in Beacon, New York.
The April 26 program celebrates Carnival traditions from around the world and features works by Richard Strauss, Paul Basler, Augusta Read Thomas, Julie Giroux, Vincent Persichetti, and Roger Nixon.
Tickets: $10 adults | $8 students | $5 children under 10
Also check out other Entertainment events in Schenectady, Music events in Schenectady, Concerts in Schenectady.