Arizona Wind Symphony
Tempe, AZ
About the Arizona Wind Symphony
Now in its 23rd season, the Arizona Wind Symphony (AWS) entertains Tempe and surrounding communities with an enjoyable variety of music in the beautiful Tempe Center for the Arts. Founded by conductor William J. Richardson, the AWS grew to a 90-piece concert band prior to an activity pause due to COVID. It has now resumed regular rehearsals and concerts under the baton of Jon Gomez (see below). The ensemble is comprised of musicians passionately committed to presenting music of the highest caliber. AWS is comprised of music professionals, non-professionals and students. Joined together by a shared joy and commitment to the arts, AWS musicians are proud to share their time and talents for enriching the cultural landscape of our community.
A registered 501(c)(3) non-profit, the Arizona Wind Symphony is partially supported by funding from the City of Tempe, the Arizona Commission of the Arts, and donors like you!
Conductor Jon Gomez
Jon Gomez serves as a National Educational Clinician providing services as a conductor, music educator, consultant, public speaker, adjudicator, producer, and trusted colleague. His experience in the profession spans over thirty years and he continues to believe in creating positively life-changing experiences through music.
Mr. Gomez was the Former Director of Bands and Department Chair for the Performing Arts at Dobson High School in Mesa, Arizona (2000-2016). In prior years, he served as Director of Bands at Coronado High School and as the District Team Leader for Bands in the Scottsdale Unified School District. Jon received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree (1987) and a Master’s degree in Education Administration (1993) from Arizona State University.
Tempe Center for the Arts
The Tempe Center for the Arts (TCA), completed in September, 2007, is a vibrant gathering place for regional performing and visual arts events. Although designed for all audiences, the facility is the new home of a number of children’s performance groups. TCA forms a crossroads for performing arts and park activities; framing scenic vistas, integrating pedestrian connections to a new riverfront park, and reflecting the important cultural traditions of the City of Tempe.
The Center's character reflects its function as a civic meeting place and a symbol of Tempe's desert landscape and history. Its design draws upon significant historic, climatic, and contextual traditions for inspiration, while utilizing modern technology to create outstanding performance spaces that promote flexible use and allow intimate connections between performer and audience. On the exterior, a curved concrete wall serves to enclose and unify the main building, while a sculptural shed roof provides necessary acoustical and solar protection, and serves as a memorable icon when viewed from the river area, landing aircraft, and the City of Tempe.