Ensembles

Symphonic Band


The Symphonic Band brings together more than 110 musicians in an inclusive, LGBTQIA+-rooted community ensemble. Led by Artistic Director Dean McDowell, the band performs everything from traditional concert band music to Broadway and contemporary favorites at three seasonal concerts and community events throughout the Coachella Valley.


Rehearsals: Thursdays, 7:00-9:30 p.m., September through May.

Photo of the symphonic band from the 2025 spring concert at Temple Isaiah/Jewish Community Center. The band is dressed in black with blue ties and scarves and are sitting on risers on the stage at the venue.
This is a photo of our Jazz Band at the Cascade Lounge at the Agua Caliente Casino in Palm springs where they performed their annual concert and fund raiser for the band.

Jazz Band


The Desert Winds Jazz Band brings the excitement of big band jazz to the Coachella Valley, performing everything from classic swing and blues to Latin jazz and contemporary favorites. With its rich brass sound, driving rhythms, and dynamic soloists, the ensemble entertains audiences at concerts and community events throughout the season.


Rehearsals - Thursdays 5:50-6:50 pm, September through May

No Shade (Pop Band)



No Shade, the Desert Winds Pop Band, brings an energetic mix of popular music and holiday favorites to events throughout the Coachella Valley. This versatile ensemble of roughly a dozen musicians has entertained audiences at Palm Springs VillageFest and won the Brightest Holiday Float award at the 2025 Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade.

The Pep Band is shown here playing a concert of Holiday music in downtown Palm Springs on the plaza near Starbucks. In the background are mountains, palm trees and Christmas decorations. The band is dressed un ugly Christmas sweaters and many are wearing Santa hats or flashing lights.
Photo of the marching band at the 2025 Pride Parade in Palm Springs. The band is dressed in black pants and purple band shirts. There is a color guard with rainbow flags. A crowd 5 deep lines the sidewalks.

Marching Band


The Desert Winds Marching Band brings music, energy, and pride to the streets of the Coachella Valley and beyond. A colorful presence at parades and community celebrations, the ensemble combines spirited performances with a commitment to LGBTQIA+ visibility and inclusion, proudly representing Palm Springs Desert Winds at events such as the Palm Springs Pride Parade.

Pep Band


The Desert Winds Pep Band brings spirited marches, popular favorites, and holiday music to celebrations and community events throughout the Coachella Valley. Performing primarily as a seated ensemble, the group is a familiar presence at Palm Springs' downtown holiday festivities and local fundraisers. Notable appearances include the dedication of the California State LGBTQ Veterans Memorial and a veterans tribute at the Riverside County Fairgrounds.

The Pep Band is shown here playing a concert of Holiday music in downtown Palm Springs on the plaza near Starbucks. In the background are mountains, palm trees and Christmas decorations. The band is dressed un ugly Christmas sweaters and many are wearing Santa hats or flashing lights.
A saxophone quartet performs on the stage at St. Margarets Church in Palm Desert as part of the Bands chamber and small ensemble concert held each January.

Small Ensembles


Desert Winds' Small Ensembles bring together musicians in smaller groups to explore a wide variety of musical styles, from classical favorites to jazz, pop, and holiday music. These versatile groups perform at community celebrations, special events, and intimate concerts throughout the Coachella Valley.

Our small ensembles include Desert Flutes, Clarinet Buffet, Rumbling Reeds, a Saxophone Quartet, and a Woodwind Quintet.