North County Winds

The North County Winds is a San Diego based concert band whose members are a collection of semi-professional and amateur musicians of all ages dedicated to:

• performing challenging music at the highest quality level
• supporting music education in local schools
• encouraging individuals to play music throughout all stages of their lives
• fostering friendship, camaraderie and community
• having fun!

Under the direction of Vince Hernandez since 2002, NCW engages audiences and its members playing every genre of music including standard wind ensemble literature, marches, ballads, jazz, movie themes, show tunes and other popular music.  NCW rehearses weekly, performs concerts throughout the year and supports local school music programs by providing a mentorship program for a select group of younger members.

We have approximately 40 rehearsals and perform 5-6 times per year.  While most members can't make every rehearsal or every performance, in order to perform at a high level members are generally expected to attend at least 30 of the rehearsals.  

As with any high level performing group, it requires a certain amount of discipline and preparation to create a high quality musical product.  Our rehearsals operate similar to that of a college wind ensemble with time focused on the music.  However, we do enjoy socializing during breaks and before and after rehearsals.

Members are expected to practice between rehearsals so that the rehearsal time is used to blend sections vs working on individual parts.  Don't be fooled though, even the most disciplined organizations have plenty of fun - and we are no exception!

Most of our members can play at a high school or college skill level and we regularly perform grade 4 and 5 pieces.  However, if you demonstrate a passion for making music, a commitment to showing up for rehearsals and are disciplined to practice, we are happy to help you polish your skills to meet the challenging music.  We promise that you will be thrilled you did!