Encore is a collection instrumentalists from around the Twin Cities' dedicated to the performance of traditional and contemporary masterworks for band. The Encore Wind Ensemble is a collection of some of the Twin Cities' top instrumentalists dedicated to the performance of traditional and contemporary masterworks for band. The Encore Wind Ensemble is a collection of some ofthe Twin Cities' top instrumentalists dedicated to the performance oftraditional and contemporary masterworks for band.  It provides anopportunity for serious wind players and percussionists from theMinneapolis and St. Paul area to share in the highest level of musicalexpression and artistry. ENCORE came togetherfor the first time under the baton of Charles B. Olson on September 8,1996 and was the culmination of several years of planning and dreaming.From the very first note, there was a sense of real excitement andenthusiasm in the grouEncore strives to exist as aprofessional-level ensemble to promote band as an art form, as well asto encourage lifelong learning opportunities in music. As a model groupfor young musicians, Encore also advocates for music education inschools through its MusicConnect Programs and the creation of theCharles B. Olson Young Composers Contest. Finally, Encore serves as avenue for artistic and professional development among music educators.