The NDSU Wind Symphony is an auditioned ensemble open to all students across campus in the Fall and Spring semesters. The band usually performs two concerts per semester, as well as for various events such as NDMEA and a tour in the Fall semester. The Wind Symphony rehearses Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 12:15 - 1:45 pm and is conducted by Dr. Warren Olfert. For more information on the NDSU Wind Symphony, click the button below.
The NDSU University Band is a non-audition band also open to all students across campus. The band performs two concerts in both Fall and Spring semesters and practices Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 3:00-3:50 pm. The University Band is conducted by Dr. Sigurd Johnson. For more information on the NDSU University Band, click the button below!
Director of Bands
Ph.D., Florida State University
M.M., University of Cincinnati
B.S., Bob Jones University (music education)
Warren D. Olfert is Director of Bands and Coordinator of Instrumental Music Education at North Dakota State University. His duties include conducting the NDSU Wind Symphony, teaching courses in conducting and music education (including student teacher supervision) and overseeing the graduate instrumental conducting area.
Director, University Band and String Chamber Ensemble
D.M.A., University of Memphis
M.M., Northwestern University
B.A., Concordia College
Since 2008, Dr. Sigurd Johnson has been an Associate Professor of Music and Director of Athletic Bands and Percussion Studies at North Dakota State University. In 2021, Dr. Johnson stepped away from Marching Band to pursue other opportunities within the Challey School of Music. Prior to his appointment at NDSU, he served as Director of Bands and Percussion at Valley City State University in Valley City, ND; Director of Bands and Instrumental Music at Rust College in Holly Springs, MS; and as a percussion arranger and instructor on the staff of the University of Memphis Marching Band.
