Ways to Support the Band

The Mission

The mission of the Florida Wind Band is to entertain and inspire the community through live performances of high-quality wind band music, while providing enhanced youth performance opportunities.

The Vision

At the Florida Wind Band, our vision is to be more than just Tampa Bay's premier wind band—we’re on a mission to bring people together, spark creativity, and inspire musical adventures that reach beyond the ordinary.

We aim to create a musical landscape where talented musicians of all ages, from the very first note to the final ovation, have a vibrant, welcoming outlet to express their passion and creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an eager young talent, we’re here to offer a space where you can grow, perform, and share the magic of live music with the community.

Our flagship adult wind ensemble brings together the region's top professional musicians, united by a shared love for music and a commitment to creating unforgettable performances. But our vision extends beyond just our main ensemble. As the parent organization of Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds, we also provide exceptional opportunities for the next generation of musicians. BAY Winds is the premier destination for talented middle and high school students in Tampa Bay, offering them high-caliber wind ensembles and chances to perform alongside some of the area’s best.

Our goal isn’t just to play music—it’s to create experiences that inspire and spark joy. From the first note to the standing ovation, we’re building a musical community where every concert is an adventure, every musician finds their voice, and everyone is welcome to join in the fun.

Our History

The Florida Wind Band is more than just Tampa's premier wind ensemble—it’s a musical adventure waiting to be experienced! Since 2008, we’ve been sparking excitement, inspiring creativity, and sharing the joy of music with our vibrant community. With performances that range from heartwarming to foot-tapping fun, we bring the kind of music that makes you laugh, cry, and, most importantly, feel alive.

Our talented ensemble is made up of professional musicians—including K-12 educators, college professors, and full-time performers—who bring their passion for music to life every time we take the stage. We play an eclectic mix of repertoire, from timeless classical pieces to the bold sounds of contemporary composers, under the direction of USF’s Director of Bands, Matthew McCutchen. He’s dedicated to crafting programs that make our audiences not just listen, but experience the music.

Wind bands are an integral part of American history and culture, offering everything from the lively marches of circuses to the majestic performances at Carnegie Hall. For generations, wind bands have captured the hearts and imaginations of people across the country. From the grand touring bands of the 19th century to the remarkable high school and collegiate ensembles that have blossomed since World War II, wind bands have always been about bringing people together through music.

While military bands are still a cherished tradition, outside of them, full-time professional wind bands are a rare thing in America. That’s where our story began. In 2007, John Carmichael moved to Tampa to become the Director of Bands at the University of South Florida. Armed with a vision to create a full-time wind band in Tampa Bay, he knew that this community had the spirit and support to make it a reality. For the next 11 years, he worked tirelessly to bring this dream to life—growing the Florida Wind Band into the beloved ensemble it is today.

Over the years, we’ve had the honor of performing for thousands of people and sharing our music with prestigious groups like the American Bandmasters Association, the College Band Directors National Association, and the Florida Music Educators Association Convention. Each performance is more than just a concert; it’s an experience—one that we continue to build on as we look forward to many more years of bringing musical magic to Tampa Bay.

So, whether you’re joining us for the first time or you’ve been part of our journey from the beginning, we invite you to be a part of the adventure. The music is just the beginning—together, we can make it unforgettable.

Your Contribution Lights the Way for Musical Exploration! 

Our ensemble continues to grow and thrive by the selfless work of our volunteers and generous support from donations and sponsorships within the community. There are many ways you can make a contribution to support our mission. You can become a monthly donor or make a one-time tax-exempt donation by visiting our donate page. Tiered sponsorships are also available for corporations, individuals, and families by visiting our sponsorships page.