The Desert Winds Freedom Band (DWFB), is a very diverse group open to all gay and gay-friendly musicians who like to play concert band music. It is comprised of dedicated musicians whose goal is to make great music together. Some are retired music professionals and others haven’t played since they graduated from high school or college.

Serving the greater Palm Springs and Coachella Valley areas, the band is currently directed by Dean McDowell. The band was founded by Gary Moline as a not-for-profit organization, recognized by the IRS as a 501c (3) tax exempt organization in the fall of 2001.

The band is a member of the Lesbian and Gay Bands Association (LGBA), which has member bands throughout the United States, Canada and Australia. In November 2016, the Desert Winds was proud to host the tremendously successful LGBA Annual Conference here in Palm Springs.

Besides the large concert band, DWFB has created numerous smaller ensembles to add to our community involvement and increase the playing opportunities for our members. The largest is the DWFB Jazz Band and is comprised of 21 musicians. Other ensembles include a Jazz Sextet, Saxophone Quartet, Brass Quintet and Steel Drum Band that play numerous gigs around the area. Depending on scheduling, any of these groups are available to perform at your next function.