Today we’d like to introduce you to Victoria Hitz.
Hi Victoria, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
The Dallas Asian Winds was founded in 2018 by our conductor and music director, Jung-Moo Lee, with the purpose of celebrating and promoting the beauty of Asian heritage, and artistry through our performances. It started with a small group of musicians here in the DFW area who not only wanted to build a community ensemble, but also represent the many rich Asian cultures that make up the area.
Our ensemble brings together musicians from a wide range of cultural and professional backgrounds: educators, students, business professionals, etc. Since our inception, we’ve had the opportunity to perform diverse repertoire, from traditional wind band literature to works by Asian and Asian American composers, and we’ve made it a priority to highlight works and musicians that aren’t always heard even in wind ensemble concert settings. We’ve also collaborated with local businesses and organizations to promote our mission to the larger DFW community.
We are still growing into our full vision, but that’s what makes being a member of this ensemble so exciting! There are so many opportunities for us to share our story, purpose, and music as we continue to evolve!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
As with any growing organization, it definitely hasn’t always been a completely smooth road, but every challenge we’ve face has helped shape our ensemble. Visibility and awareness was our first biggest hurdle as we were just starting out, and the logistics of running an organization (i.e. finding consistent rehearsal and performance spaces, balancing conflicting schedules) are ongoing struggles. But despite these challenges, our sense of purpose reminds us why this ensemble matters: To create music that celebrates our heritages, fulfills our members, and builds connection. It hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been meaningful!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I think what truly sets us apart is our mission of exposing Asian culture and literature to the DFW community. We’re not just dedicated to musical excellence, we’re also committed to Asian representation, music education, and building community. As an Asian American, this is something that deeply resonates with me and makes playing with this group such an impactful experience.
I’m especially proud of how quickly our organization has grown and how strong our sense of commitment has become! Our members are incredibly gifted and bring so much heart and passion to each performance, and audience members often tell us they can feel that connection and energy on stage.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
There are actually a lot of wonderful ways people can get involved with and/or support us!
We’re especially interested in collaborating with composers or artists that highlight Asian and Asian American voices. We love premiering new works, partnering with local businesses, and performing at new venues and events that celebrate Asian cultures, and collaborating with schools, organizations, and other ensembles to host concerts, share music, and create educational opportunities throughout the DFW community!
And, of course, the simplest but MOST impactful ways of supporting us is by attending concerts, spreading the word, and donating! Every person in our audience helps us live our mission and continue to celebrate our Asian heritage!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.dawinds.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dallas_asianwinds
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Dallas-Asian-Winds-100077655410352/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@dallasasianwinds1734
