A Brief History

Overview: Lake Erie Winds (LEW) is a quartet of clarinetists from across northern Ohio formed in 2020 in response to large instrumental music groups not being able to practice or perform during the pandemic.

Beginning in June of 2021, the Lake Erie Winds played concerts in many N. Ohio civic and commercial locations. The highlight of this first season was a performance at the Huron Public Library in November. With the enthusiastic response from those attending, the idea of continuing such chamber music presentations at other area libraries and civic events was conceptualized. To support this vision, LEW’s library already had compositions which included styles ranging from light classics, jazz, ragtime, polka, popular, and more; there was something sure to please everyone.

In 2022, we continued to grow in several dimensions. During that period, the quartet performed at numerous new venues in the Lake Erie/Firelands area particularly at public libraries. Not only were there concerts of our traditional repertoire but during December, special holiday songs and compositions were performed as well. All programs were well attended and the responses from audiences were very supportive. 

But perhaps the most important change was that another member was added to the group. Our library can expand to include compositions for clarinet trio and quintet. Also, options that require Eb soprano and alto clarinet are now possible.

For the 2023 concert season, the group added special seasonal programs. In March, the theme was Swing into Spring which featured a fresh bouquet of musical flowers ranging from light classics including portions of Vivaldi's "Spring from the Seasons" to "Take Me Out to The Ballgame" to celebrate the new season. Scheduled for the summer were several Family Music Concerts. These events focused on special musical selections that are already favorites with “kids” of all ages. The repertoire for these concerts included popular tunes from cartoons, movies, television, and similar venues that have a tuneful appeal as well as supported our mission in programing of “a little something for everyone.”

The 2024 concert season is off to a wonderful start. We continue to appear at many of our past venues and are adding new locations in the southern portions of our area. We are planning for performances in Sandusky, Seneca, and Ashland counties which will bring our music to seven counties in North Central Ohio. As usual, our repertoire continues to expand but we have found that it is time to re-program many of our favorite arrangements for new and more diverse audiences.  

Booking: Might you be interested in knowing more about having LEW perform for your next function? This could be a wedding ceremony, holiday party, special event, birthday celebration, mini concert. or anything that would be enhanced by including live woodwind chamber music. Please contact us with your requirements since with a library of over 200 arrangements, a performance can be tailored to your exact needs.

Our fees are modest, particularly for non-profit organizations. Please email us for more details.

4-6-2024