The mission of the Muskingum Valley Symphonic Winds (MVSW) is:
To contribute positively to the musical environment of the area it serves.
To provide a vehicle for the musical education and enlightenment for persons of all ages throughout the community.
To provide an opportunity for individual musical expression and growth through this organization.
To provide an opportunity for musicians to maintain and improve proficiency.
To reaffirm the community concert ensemble position in American music
MVSW History
The Muskingum Valley Symphonic Winds was founded by Muskingum University Professor of Music, Dr. William Schlacks, in 1993 when the Muskingum Valley Community Band (est. 1986) was converted to a semi-professional organization with patrons. In 2005 MVSW was granted 501.c.3. non-profit/tax-exempt status with the expectation of enhancing fund raising though corporate and additional patron sponsors.
In August 2009 – MVSW founder and director, Dr. Schlacks, unexpectedly passed away. With the support of the MVSW Board, the preliminary plans Dr. Schlacks had made for the 2009-10 season were implemented with the addition of guest conductors from regional colleges and universities. In June 2010, MVSW presented their first concert in the New Concord Village Park as part of the New Concord’s Celebrate New Concord series.
Newly appointed Muskingum University Assistant Professor of Music, David Turrill, became the MVSW Director in August 2010. A highlight of the 2010-2011 season was a collaboration with the Muskingum University Wind and Percussion Ensemble for a free “Community Winds of Christmas” concert.
In June 2012, in addition to the regular season, MVSW presented a second semi-annual concert as part of the Celebrate New Concord series.
With a successful concert and an attendance of nearly 200, MVSW was assured of future CNC concert appearances every other year.
Since January 2013 the performances of the MVSW have had an emphasis on continuing to build audience through collaboration and joint concerts with various Muskingum University student and faculty music ensembles as well as soloists which represent not only Muskingum University Music Faculty, but Music Faculty from universities outside of Ohio.
