SaddleBrooke Winds and Strings: A Musical Gem of the Community
The SaddleBrooke Winds and Strings (SBWS) ensemble has become a cornerstone of the SaddleBrooke community’s musical landscape. Originally established in 2013 by local residents, the group was created to give amateur and returning musicians a space to reconnect with their instruments, polish their skills, and share their passion for music. What began as a small gathering has since grown into a thriving ensemble of approximately 30 dedicated musicians.
Weekly Rehearsals and Membership Opportunities
Rehearsals are held every Friday morning from 8:15 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at the MountainView Ballroom in SaddleBrooke HOA 2. The ensemble welcomes musicians of all skill levels who are looking for a fun, low-pressure environment to play music and make new friends. Those interested in joining can call 763-226-9292 or 520-241-3522, or visit the official website at saddlebrookewindsandstrings.org.
A Diverse and Crowd-Pleasing Repertoire
The ensemble performs a wide range of music including Broadway show tunes, film scores, patriotic medleys, sacred compositions, and Americana favorites. These pieces appeal to audiences of all ages and musical tastes. SBWS frequently performs at retirement communities, festivals, nursing homes, and has appeared in notable events like the Oro Valley Holiday Festival and the Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance (SAACA) Concert Series.
Concert Highlights and Collaborations
In February 2024, SBWS presented “Images and Impressions” at the DesertView Performing Arts Center. This performance featured powerful tone poems enhanced with projected visuals and a special collaboration with the Sonoran Singers, further showcasing the group’s artistic reach and talent.
Meet the Conductor: Jesús Jacquez
Under the baton of conductor Jesús Jacquez, SBWS has reached new heights. Jacquez, a graduate of the University of Arizona’s music education program, brings a wealth of teaching and performance experience to the group. He has taught band, orchestra, and choir in public schools and performs actively with the Arizona Symphonic Winds, Sonora Winds, and the Tucson Concert Band.
His leadership has elevated the musicality of the group while maintaining its welcoming and supportive spirit. His passion for community music is evident in every performance.
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Continuing the Legacy
SBWS continues to play a vital role in the cultural vibrancy of the SaddleBrooke area. With regularly scheduled concerts and community outreach, the group remains dedicated to sharing the joy of music with residents and surrounding neighborhoods. For upcoming performances and news, visit the official SBWS website.
Whether you’re a musician looking to dust off your instrument or an audience member seeking a heartwarming concert, SaddleBrooke Winds and Strings is a treasured ensemble worth experiencing.