WindFest 2026

The Western Illinois University Windfest is an annual event hosted by the La Moine Brass Quintet and Camerata Nova. The day features performances instrumental masterclasses, clinics, and opportunities throughout for attendees to play!

• When: Saturday, April 11, 2026 | 8:30am-4:00pm
• Location: COFAC Recital Hall, Western Illinois University
• Cost:
  $30 general registration
  $10 student registration^*
  *Registration is not required for WIU students and staff

Tentative Event Schedule

The La Moine Brass Quintet

The La Moine Brass Quintet is the resident faculty brass quintet of the School of Music of Western Illinois University. Quintet members include Nicole Gillotti, trumpet; Jena Gardner, horn; Jett Walker, trombone; and James Land, tuba. These WIU faculty musicians hold illustrious careers in orchestral, chamber, and solo performance with international recognition. The quintet is completed by Sarah Cisney, trumpet studio graduate assistant and first-year master's degree student.

Additionally, the quintet hosts the annual WIU Windfest. This on-campus event welcomes area brass musicians for a day of musical enrichment for students throughout the region.

Camerata Nova

Founded in 1966, the Camerata Woodwind Quintet was the first chamber music ensemble in residence at Western Illinois University. Over the past half century, the group has presented performances and clinics throughout the region, the nation, and the world.

In 2023, the Western Illinois University woodwind faculty embarked on a musical journey to expand the boundaries of the classical woodwind quintet. With a desire to explore new timbres and commission new repertoire, they made the innovative decision to incorporate the saxophone into the ensemble, creating the Camerata Nova Quintet. This unconventional choice brings a fresh, dynamic dimension to the standard ensemble. The saxophone's technical versatility and rich tonal palette infuses performances with a fusion of timbres that resonates with tradition and modernity. The ensemble strives to expand musical boundaries and breathe new life into classical traditions while honoring the legacy of the past.

Camerata Nova is composed of the Western Illinois University woodwind faculty: Julianna Eidle, flute; Paul Chinen, oboe; Gloria Orozco Dorado, clarinet; Charlie Chadwell, saxophone; and Andrea Baker, bassoon.