Palm Springs Desert Winds History

Band Founder,

Gary Moline

Palm Springs Desert Winds (formerly known as Desert Winds Freedom Band)  is a non-profit community musical ensemble based in Palm Springs, California, founded in 2001 by Gary Moline. What began as a small group of 17 musicians has flourished into a vibrant organization of 115 members, featuring a symphonic band, jazz band, pep band, marching band, pop band, and various smaller ensembles. This Season will be the Band's 25th and we want to CELEBRATE!  Alongside our concert performances, we take pride in being active participants in community events throughout the Coachella Valley. 

Our dedication goes beyond our performances.

  • We emphasize the importance of music education by providing college scholarships to local high school graduates aspiring to pursue degrees in music education.
  • Each spring, we host a guest composer who collaborates with our Artistic Director, facilitating workshops for local high school and middle school bands.


We are proud members of the Pride Bands Alliance. 


A list of Past Desert Winds Freedom Band Appearances can be found HERE


Each year, our membership honors an individual with the Bob Montooth Spirit Award. Additionally, the Board may present the Dencil White Leadership Award. Explore the history of these awards and meet past recipients below, or HERE.ERE






The Bob Montooth Spirit Award

The Bob Montooth Spirit Award seeks to honor a DWFB member who demonstrates the spirit, dedication, and enthusiasm of a long standing past member and Board Member of the organization. The award is presented each year at the Band's Fall Concert.

To learn more about former Band Member Bob Montooth and to see the recipients of this award, go to AWARDS.

 Dencil White Leadership Award

 The award will be given to Band Members nominated by the Board of Directors who emulate Dencil White and his sustained commitment to music, performance, leadership, and the welfare of our organization.

To learn more about Band Member Dencil White and to see the recipients of this award, go to AWARDS.