History

The Crossroads Wind Symphony is an adult wind band under the direction of Paul W. Popiel, and is comprised of Missouri and Kansas musicians, most of who are music educators. Crossroads Wind Symphony began in 2016 with more than a year of planning the discussion to provide performance opportunities for busy musicians and directors to play their instruments, make great music together, and perform the highest quality repertoire. In 2018, the Crossroads Wind Symphony became a reality and is performing four to five concerts per year.

Staff

Paul W. Popiel, Conductor

Paul W. Popiel, professor of music, is the Director of Bands at the University of Kansas, only the seventh person to hold this position in the band’s storied 125-year history. Popiel conducts the KU Wind Ensemble, directs the graduate program in wind conducting, and guides all aspects of the university band program. His previous appointments include the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music and Oklahoma State University. He also enjoyed several wonderful years teaching in the public schools of Texas and Michigan. Popiel additionally serves as the conductor of the Crossroads Wind Symphony.

CWS Board

Kimberlyn Angelo, Percussion Manager

Melissa Askren, Personnel Manager

Jennifer Creek, Publicity Chair

Dan Freeman, Recruitment Chair

Tom Hornbaker, Treasurer

Julia Janda, Woodwind Music Librarian

Brandon Lesando, Business Manager

Michael Solomon, Logistics Manager

Chase Wallace, Bylaws Chair

Jacob Wilson, Brass Music Librarian