About WASBE
WASBE is a non-profit international association open to all individuals, institutions and industries interested in symphonic wind bands and wind ensembles as serious and distinctive mediums of musical expression and cultural heritage.
WASBE has welcomed over 1000 members, and organizations in more than 50 countries, from throughout the world. The official language of WASBE is English and all official WASBE business is transacted in this language. However, in order to help facilitate better communications within the WASBE membership, WASBE Sections have been established in several countries and regions and provide information to the membership in these areas in their respective languages.
Mission
01
Promote symphonic bands and wind ensembles as serious and distinctive mediums of musical expression and cultural heritage.
02
Assist in all ways possible the development of band activities throughout the world.
03
Encourage the international exchange of conductors, teachers, students, and composers.
04
Help others recognize the importance of the symphonic wind band and the wind ensemble for international and national communication and understanding.
05
Encourage the composition of band literature of excellence that reflects national heritages and transcends international boundaries.
Statement of Understanding
The following statement of understanding was written by composer Warren Benson and adopted by the WASBE Council in 1990. It expresses the underlying philosophy upon which all WASBE activities are based.
"We recognize that we are in an inclusive organization and that this defines our uniqueness."
Honorary Life Members
Bert Aalders, The Netherlands
Toshio Akiyama, Japan
Frank Battisti, USA
Leon J. Bly, Germany
James Croft*, USA
Désiré Dondeyne*, France
Frederick Fennell*, USA
Trevor Ford, Norway
Egil A. Gundersen, Norway
Felix Hauswirth, Switzerland
Jan Molenaar, The Netherlands
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*deceased
WASBE Lifetime Achievement Award
Karel Husa
1921 - 2016
Timothy Reynish
United Kingdom