Wind Symphony
Wind Symphony is the advanced band ensemble for woodwind and brass players. This ensemble performs at community and school events when called upon, in addition to performing a concert every quarter, participates in basketball band, performs for graduation, and marches in the Memorial Day parade.

Symphonic Band
​Symphonic Band is the intermediate band ensemble for woodwind and brass players. Symphonic Band performs a concert every quarter, participates in basketball band, performs for graduation, and marches in the Memorial Day parade. 

Concert Band
​Concert Band is for all incoming freshmen woodwinds and brass. It is also for students who have never touched an instrument, students who need a stronger foundation in the fundamentals of their instrument, or students learning a secondary instrument. Concert Band performs a concert every quarter, participates in basketball band, and marches in the Memorial Day parade.

Percussionists are enrolled in our percussion ensemble classes and combine with our brass and woodwind players in after school rehearsals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does band take up a lot of time?

Band is an academic class, so there are homework assignments and tests like any other class. There is also one concert per quarter and about two after school rehearsals per quarter. So there is a time commitment, but it is completely manageable. Our upper ensemble does have more performances throughout the community, so that is more of a time commitment. We believe our students actually end up with better time management skills because a slightly heavier schedule.

How much does it cost to join band?

There is no fee for band. If you need to rent an instrument, we do charge for that, but it minimal. We also have all band students buy a band polo, which is used for a variety of performances. The polo costs $30 and is good for all four years. Beyond that the normal musical costs students encountered in middle school will continue: upkeep of the instruments, reeds/valve oil, sticks for percussionists, etc.

Can I do band and sports (or another activity)? ​

Yes, absolutely. We may run into a conflict every now and then, but our calendar is posted well in advance to help sort out conflicts. Mr. West is also very willing to share time with any extracurricular activities. Mr. West will work with you and other teachers to make scheduling work.

Can I do band and honors/AP classes?

Absolutely! Some of the best musicians in our bands are also top performing students who take several honors and AP classes. Mr. West has also been working with the administration, so band does not conflict with any honors or AP classes.  ​​

I do not own an instrument. Can I still participate in band?

Of course! While we do prefer that you own your own instrument, you can rent through our music vendor, Music & Arts, or directly from the school. 

Does band do any fundraisers?/How do I pay for band related things?

We have many fundraisers. Each student automatically has a Fine Arts Boosters account. Whenever they fundraise, the money they earn goes into that account. They can use that money for music related needs (i.e. instrument repairs, private lessons, band trips, band polo, etc.)
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Should I take private lessons?

Yes, please! You may ask why should I take private lessons if I am already in a class to learn more about my instrument and band. Private lessons drastically help any musician. While Mr. West is very knowledgeable about band related topics, he is not an expert on every single instrument. Studying with someone who is an expert on your instrument will help you a great deal. In addition, one-on-one teaching is also far superior to large group learning. They can address individual needs that you have. Check out our list of private instructors that we recommend.

Can I take band for an honors credit?

Yes! We offer a separate honors credit for every band ensemble. These students complete all of the assignments with the non-honors and complete an independent project each quarter along with a couple smaller assignment per semester. Visit the honors page for a description of curriculum.

Students who wish take band for an honors credit must receive the approval from the director.

When does band meet?

All of the concert bands are a curricular class and meet every day for 45 minutes.

Can i audition for a higher band?

Yes, at the end of each semester all students take a placement audition usually consisting of scales, a short prepared excerpt, and sightreading. It is possible for any student to move up or down an ensemble.