The Delaware Valley Wind Symphony (DVWS) is a 501(c)3, not for profit, performing arts organization, serving the Bucks County, Pennsylvania community. Founded in 2006 by eminent educator, composer, and arranger Jerry Nowak, the DVWS has captivated audiences throughout Bucks County with exciting, diverse programs. In addition to our annual concert season, we make professional appearances at community events and record new concert repertoire for music publishing companies. Our musicians are professional music educators and professionally trained musicians. We operate under the direction of a board of directors which provides financial and mission oversight, with operations managed by our executive director.
Our mission is to make substantial contributions to the community through memorable performances of the highest quality and to support the music education of young people. In 2021, we established an annual Concerto Soloist Competition which provides performance opportunities for highly advanced high school musicians. Since our founding 18 years ago, we have awarded over $19,000 in scholarships to Bucks County high school musicians seeking to pursue the study of music.
We believe that music has the power to unite communities, enrich lives, and create lifelong friendships for both musicians and listeners.
Steve Sweetsir
Steve Sweetsir is celebrating his 10th year as music director of the Delaware Valley Wind Symphony, conducting four formal concerts along with several community events each year. He is also the music director of the Bridgton Community Band, which is located in Bridgton, Maine, and performs 8-9 concerts each summer. Passionate about mentoring young musicians, he was the founder and director of the wind ensemble program of the Youth Orchestra of Bucks County for 32 years. He continues his work with student musicians as a guest conductor and clinician at area music festivals. He earned a Bachelor of Music degree from the New England Conservatory of Music and a Master of Music degree from Ithaca College. During our nation’s bicentennial, he played French horn in the United States Coast Guard Band and has performed in many bands and orchestras throughout his career. He currently plays horn in the Bucks County Symphony, and the Southeastern Pennsylvania Symphony, and is active in chamber and solo work. When he is not studying scores or practicing the horn, Steve enjoys mountain climbing, kayaking, and fishing!