The Delaware Youth Wind Symphony is entering its THIRD season!
The group is comprised of some of the best musicians in the Greater Columbus area, and is open to any High School student that is currently a member of their high school band program. If you are interested in joining us this season, please fill out this short form:
2026 DYWS Membership Form
Rehearsals: The group rehearses on Sundays on campus at Ohio Wesleyan University. Rehearsals take place in Presser Hall, located in Sanborn Hall (23 Elizabeth Street). There is parking available on the street and in a small lot located near Sanborn Hall. Rehearsals will run from 2-4 PM, unless otherwise announced.
Concert: The season will culminate with a concert on May 3, 2026 in Gray Chapel on campus at Ohio Wesleyan University. A Dress Rehearsal will happen at 2 PM, with the concert starting at 3 PM. The concert will be free and open to the public, as well as livestreamed for family members who are unable to make it!
Auditions: Seating auditions will occur at the start of the season for chair placement. There is no audition necessary to become a member of the ensemble.
Membership Fee: There is a $75 fee to participate in the group. This fee covers costs for purchasing music, a tshirt for all members, and other logistics-related expenses. Payments will be accepted digitally, and checks made out to Ohio Wesleyan University. Membership Fees will never be a barrier for a student to participate. If you have concers, please let us know!
Link to online payment portal: Delaware Youth Wind Symphony Membership Payment
Conductors:
Mrs. Melissa Grimes is director of bands at Olentangy Shanahan Middle School and assistant marching band director at Ohio Wesleyan University. Melissa was guest clinician and conductor for the Ohio Wesleyan University's middle school honors band in 2022 and directed the junior jazz ensemble for Ohio Wesleyan's 2023 Summer Music Camp. Melissa has been pit orchestra director for several of Olentangy Orange High School's Orangelight Productions.
Justin Hennig is an enthusiastic musician, conductor, and music educator with 14 years of teaching experience. Currently serving as Director of Bands at Jonathan Alder High School and teaching grades 5-12, Mr. Hennig enjoys collaborating with colleagues to create dynamic Band experiences for students empowering them to be self-sufficient musicians and people.
Mr. Hennig earned a Bachelor's Degree in Music Education from The Ohio State University in 2012 and subsequently earned a Master's Degree of Music in Music Education from Capital University in 2021. He has had the pleasure of studying with excellent music educators and conductors such as Dr. Jon Woods, Mr. Jonathan Waters, Dr. Milton Allen, Dr. Matthew Dockendorf, and Dr. Jeffrey Gershmen.
He has remained in central Ohio since 2008 and has had the pleasure of working with numerous ensembles, musicians, performers, and teachers within the greater Columbus Area. In addition to his local experience, in 2024 Mr. Hennig was afforded the opportunity to conduct the American Music Abroad Silver Tour Honor Band across Europe with a wide variety of international Band performances. He is excited to be joining the team this year for the Delaware Youth Wind Symphony and is looking forward to an excellent music making experience for all students involved.
