We are a symphonic concert band serving the entire SC Lowcountry. The ensemble is open to all who have at least high school band experience. There is NO audition. We pride ourselves in remembering that ENJOYMENT is key to our success.
SJWE produces four concerts each season. During preparations for the Fall Concert (September / October), weekly rehearsals take place on Thursday evenings beginning at 7:30 PM in the CANE BAY HIGH SCHOOL Band Room. Rehearsals for the remainder of the season will begin at 7:00 PM. Typically, there are four rehearsals prior to each concert. Our performances take place on Sunday afternoons beginning at 4:00 PM in the CANE BAY HIGH SCHOOL Auditorium. Take a look at our current season by clicking on a button at the top of our website.
Membership dues are $10 per semester, or $20 per season. Patron and business contributions are gladly accepted and deeply appreciated. Please email for information regarding a contribution.
St James Wind Ensemble is the second generation of a community-based concert band that began more than a decade ago. After activity had lapsed for a season or two, the group was re-established in 2017 as St James Wind Ensemble. We welcome musicians of ALL SKILL LEVELS from all areas of the Lowcountry. Please find a CLICK TO JOIN button in the navigation bar of our website! Want more information? Please don't hesitate to click the CONTACT button in the navigation bar.
Keep up with current activities, find photos, and get the latest information on our social media. Find a link to Facebook below.
SJWE seeks to enrich the quality of life of our members and of area residents by meeting artistic, service, charitable and educational needs. We further seek to provide members with enjoyment and fellowship in making excellent music.
I come from a musically talented family, and discovered my love of music in middle school band. While I played some in high school, I eventually found that my time for music was taken by teaching and being a parent. I thought my days of playing were behind me, until I heard about SJWE. At first, I was extremely nervous that I wouldn't be good enough to play with this group, but I have found tremendous support from players of all levels. I had forgotten how alive playing with a group makes me feel, and I enjoy having time for MYSELF again. Joining SJWE is one of the best decisions I've ever made!
Christina Kirkley
Clarinet
Being a member of the St James Wind Ensemble means a lot to me. Before joining the ensemble, I had put my horn down for about 10 years. Due to some personal issues, I thought being a musician was in my past. Then, I heard about a new community band starting up. I was extremely nervous at the first rehearsal. I thought I would be so terrible, I would be asked not to come back. After some practice, I remembered why music was once so important to me.
Now, I play all the time. I can’t get enough. The St James Wind Ensemble rekindled my love of music. I am forever grateful for that.
Nathan Stanley
Trombone
I had such a love for music while growing up in Berkeley County, and at 30 years old, I found myself wishing that I could play my flute again. I am an Office Manager for a real estate company, and I had little excuse to incorporate music into my everyday life. Prior to my first St. James Wind Ensemble practice, it had been at least 10 years since I had played with a group. Since I had not picked up my instrument in so long, I was initially nervous and unsure that I would be as capable as the other instrumentalists in the group. However, I am SO glad that I have joined this fun & light-hearted band-- full of people who are encouraging, welcoming, passionate, and playful. Every practice has been life-enriching, focused on fun & musical expression, and I am so grateful to be a part of it now.
Jade Rhode
Flute
Music arranged by Ryan Westberry.
Video by Jeff Faretra.
Arranged by Ryan Westberry
Complete concert performance