Palm Springs Desert Winds is preparing for a landmark moment as the organization enters its 25th Anniversary Season, marking a quarter‑century of musical excellence, community engagement, and cultural impact across Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley. As a message from Andy Nelson, Board President and Dean McDowell, Artistic Director, note: “What began as a vision to build a welcoming musical community has grown into a vibrant performing arts organization that enriches the cultural life of Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley.”
The anniversary also ushers in an important evolution: the Desert Winds Freedom Band will now be known as Palm Springs Desert Winds, a name that reflects both the ensemble’s home and its longstanding commitment to inclusion, artistic excellence, and community connection. The organization’s growing family of ensembles—including the Symphonic Band, Jazz Band, Marching Band, and Pep Band—will now share a unified identity that strengthens visibility and supports future growth.
Over the past twenty‑five years, Palm Springs Desert Winds has performed for thousands of audience members, participated in countless community events, and invested deeply in the next generation of musicians—awarding nearly $80,000 in scholarships to deserving students. “We remain dedicated to creating exceptional musical experiences, supporting musicians of all backgrounds, and bringing our community together through the shared language of music,” the message affirms.
The 25th Anniversary Season features a full lineup of performances and community appearances, beginning with the Equality Walk on October 17, followed by the Palm Springs Pride Parade on November 8, a 25th Anniversary Fall Concert at McCallum Theatre on November 22, and a Downtown Christmas Concert on December 9. The season continues into 2027 with a Chamber Music Concert on January 10, a Jazz Band performance for Tour de Palm Springs on February 6, a Jazz Concert and Gala Fundraiser in February (TBD), Spring Concerts on March 20–21, and a Pops Concert on May 2.
As Palm Springs Desert Winds celebrates its past and embraces its future, the organization extends gratitude to donors, sponsors, audiences, and musicians whose support and dedication have shaped its journey. The upcoming season invites the community to join in honoring twenty‑five years of music, memories, and pride—and to look ahead to the next chapter of artistic growth and cultural connection in the Coachella Valley.