Where Music Meets Advocacy: KU Wind Ensemble Supports CASA

KU School of Music Dean Paul Popiel shares how the Wind Ensemble’s performance at Winds Across the Prairie weaves together artistry, community, and support for children through Douglas County CASA.

On a September evening in southern Douglas County, the sounds of the University of Kansas Wind Ensemble will rise against the backdrop of rolling prairie at Triple R Ranch. Now in its fifth year, Winds Across the Prairie has become a beloved tradition — pairing exquisite music, gourmet picnic dinners, and breathtaking views with a deeper purpose: supporting Douglas County CASA’s advocacy for children who have experienced abuse and neglect.

This year’s concert, conducted by KU School of Music Dean Paul W. Popiel, aims to raise $200,000 to ensure every child in need has a dedicated advocate by their side. For Popiel and his students, the evening is more than a performance; it’s a chance to use their artistry as a force for community connection and meaningful change. As sponsors, donors, and music lovers gather for a night of inspiration, the ensemble’s presence underscores how music can amplify compassion, bring people together, and strengthen the safety net for Douglas County’s most vulnerable children.

We spoke with Dean Popiel to learn more about what this evening means for the students and why supporting CASA matters.

‍What value do you see Winds Across the Prairie having for the KU Wind Ensemble PP: Winds Across the Prairie is more than just a concert — it’s a chance for us to connect with our community and showcase the power of music to inspire and unite. It gives us a platform to perform meaningful repertoire in a setting that highlights our role not just as musicians, but as ambassadors of the university and advocates for important causes. It also pushes us artistically, since the event is high-profile and demands our best work so early in the semester.How do you see this impacting the

‍PP: Participating in events like this helps us grow in ways that go beyond the rehearsal room. It teaches us how to collaborate, how to lead, and how to use our talents to make a difference in our community. These experiences build confidence and a sense of purpose, which will carry into our careers — whether we become performers, educators, or leaders in other fields. It also strengthens our connection to KU and the broader musical community.

PP: Absolutely. We know that our performance is part of something bigger. Supporting Douglas County CASA through music gives our work deeper meaning. Many of us have reflected on how music can be a voice for those who need support, and we’re proud to be part of an event that brings attention to children and families in need. It’s humbling and empowering to realize that what we do on stage can help change lives off stage.

PP: We want to support CASA because its mission resonates with us. As musicians, teachers, and practitioners, we understand the importance of having someone in your corner — someone who advocates for you, believes in you, and helps you navigate challenges. CASA volunteers do that for children in incredibly difficult circumstances. If our music can help raise awareness and support for their work, then we’re honored to be part of that effort!

‍Winds Across the Prairie 2025 is officially sold out, a testament to the incredible generosity of our community. If you’d like to be the first to know when registration opens for next year’s concert, sign up for our newsletter. You can also make an immediate difference for children in Douglas County by supporting CASA’s work today with a donation. Together, we can ensure every child has an advocate by their side.