In 2022, the band was selected to perform at the ACB National Convention in Santa Fe, NM. We are a 501C(3) non-profit organization performing Oct - June. The Arizona Winds, a popular West Valley-based community concert band, celebrated a significant milestone during the 2024-2025 concert season. October 2024 marked 50 years of music-making throughout Arizona. During its Golden Anniversary season,
the band reprised favorite selections performed over the decades, provided pre-concert lobby chamber music to welcome the audience, and offered a host of other 50th Anniversary musical treats. In 2022, the Arizona Winds was selected to perform at the Association of Concert Bands National Convention in Santa Fe, NM, achieving the highest level of national recognition. The band was one of only five ensembles chosen through a rigorous selection process over dozens of entries from throughout the country. The Arizona Winds is a 501C(3) non-profit organization which presents a series of six free concerts each season and depends entirely upon the generous tax-deductible contributions of its patrons to sustain the level of quality performances thousands have enjoyed. Music Director - Richard Shelton
Rich Shelton retired from the United States Air Force in 1995 after 25 ½ years of service as an Air Force Band Squadron Commander and Conductor. He retired at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and, at the time, was the senior ranking officer in the Air Force Band Program. Colonel Shelton is one of the most highly decorated band commanders in the history of the Air Force Band Program. Following his retirement, after nine years as executive director of the West Valley Symphony, Colonel Shelton moved on to his third career in real estate with RE/MAX Desert Showcase and owns a promotional products business called Mark-it Solutions, LLC. We hope you will enjoy the Arizona Winds as they perform concerts from October through June.
