For 50 years, the Austin Civic Wind Ensemble has been making music for Austin, and always for free.
Why ACWE matters
ACWE was founded in 1975 and has grown into one of Austin's most beloved community music organizations. With nearly 100 members, we rehearse every Tuesday and perform throughout the year at public venues, parks, and retirement communities across the city. We never charge for admission.
We also created the Texas Community Music Festival. Now in its twentieth year, TCMF is a free, grassroots celebration of live, local music featuring real community bands every spring in Austin.
Music is good for you
Research shows that playing music with others builds social connection, combats loneliness, and strengthens community bonds. And the science goes deeper. Regularly playing an instrument is linked to improved memory, sharper attention, better problem-solving, and greater resilience against age-related cognitive decline, including reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease. This is why music for lifelong learning is not just at the heart of everything ACWE does, it's part of our mission. From tech workers to teachers, recent graduates to retirees, newcomers to longtime locals, ACWE musicians are united by a shared love of playing music together.
Where your money goes
ACWE is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Every dollar goes directly toward keeping the music going:
- Concert venue rental and fees
- New music purchases
- Rehearsal space rental
- Transporting equipment to and from concerts
- Recording fees
Your donation is tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law.
Make a gift
PayPal — Donate via PayPal
Zelle — acwetreasurer@gmail.com
Check — Make payable to "Austin Civic Wind Ensemble" and mail to:
Austin Civic Wind Ensemble
PO Box 9893
Austin, TX 78766
Cash or credit/debit card — Contact us at acwetreasurer@gmail.com to arrange.
Questions?
Reach our president at acwepresident@gmail.com or our treasurer at acwetreasurer@gmail.com. We're grateful for your support.