Our Story
Our Heritage
Founded in 2004 as the American Legion Symphonic Band, our ensemble was formed by Vietnam Veteran Arthur Tenny and dedicated community musicians. Renamed Fort Lauderdale Symphonic Winds in 2018, we engage 40 local musicians in vibrant concerts, memorials, and outreach across South Florida. Discover our musical journey and upcoming performances.
Our Leader
Rafael Ramirez, our talented conductor, brings over 30 years of percussion performance and a passion for inspiring community through music. A South Florida native and experienced leader, Rafael guides our ensemble with energy and expertise.
Meet the Conductor
Rafael Ramirez is the Conductor of the Fort Lauderdale Symphonic Winds. He has been a performer of percussion for over 30 years and is a local graduate of Deerfield Beach High School and holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of South Florida. He was a part of the inaugural year of the Herd of Thunder Marching Band, along with performing with the USF Percussion Ensemble, Concert Band, and Wind Ensemble during his time at USF. Rafael was also a member of the Colts Drum and Bugle Corps from Dubuque, Iowa and he was the Assistant Corps Director/Tour Manager for the Kiwanis Kavaliers from 2001-2004.
In addition to his Conducting, Rafael is a master percussionist with the: Broward Symphony Orchestra, South Florida Pride Band, Sunrise Pops, and Symphonic Band of the Palm Beaches. We are fortunate to have him apart of the FLSW family and look forward to his energetic and lively conducting and we welcome him to the podium of the Fort Lauderdale Symphonic Winds.
