INFORMATION FOR
The William Paterson University Chamber Winds will present “Symphonic Storytime,” a multimedia, sensory-friendly concert on Saturday, March 6, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. in the Shea Center for Performing Arts on the campus in Wayne.
“Symphonic Storytime” is a visual and musical experience with projected images and animated video, which also introduces students to the instruments of the band. The concert will feature the soundtrack and animation to the well-loved children’s book, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, composed by the British composer Stuart Hancock.
This sensory-friendly family concert is designed to be a welcoming, inclusive, and comfortable musical experience for those on the autism spectrum or with other sensory or cognitive needs. Accommodations include low- to medium-volume and lighting ranges, space for children to move or walk around with a chaperone's supervision, provision of ear plugs, and an adjoining sensory-friendly space for those who need a break from the concert environment (outfitted with sensory manipulatives and carpeting).
The WP Chamber Wind Ensemble is an elite ensemble comprised of 35 of the University’s top woodwind, brass, and percussion student players performing new and standard mixed wind and percussion chamber repertoire, as well as wind ensemble music. While primarily comprised of music majors, the ensemble is open to students from any major across campus and meets as a class twice per week.
The annual “Symphonic Storytime,” concert, now in its third year, provides an opportunity for students, particularly music education majors, to prepare sensory-friendly concert programming as they prepare for careers teaching music in schools to diverse learners
The ensemble is directed by Teresa Purcell-Giles, assistant professor of music and director of bands at William Paterson. Purcell-Giles, who joined the faculty in 2021, is active as a clinician, adjudicator, and guest conductor across the country. She has presented nationally on topics ranging from engaging audiences through interactive performances to wellness and injury prevention for conductors.
General admission tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children ages two to 17. Tickets are free for members of the William Paterson faculty, staff, and students with a valid ID. Advance ticket purchase is strongly recommended.
To purchase tickets, or for additional information, call the Shea Center for Performing Arts Box Office at 973-720-2371 or visit wp-presents.org.
