Band

• Josh Forsythe, Head Director

• Dr. Spencer Jones, Assistant Director

• Austin White, Assistant Director
• Donald Bell,  Assistant Director

• Jada Forsythe, Director and Color Guard Coordinator

• Kara Chandler, Assistant Color Guard Coordinator

In this band, students begin to explore a variety of instruments like the flute, clarinet, trumpet, french horn, trombone, baritone, tuba and percussion. They learn the fundamentals of reading sheet music, proper instrument techniques and basic music theory.

The focus is on developing basic musical skills, such as tone production, rhythm, and ensemble playing, to build a strong foundation for their future musical journey. This group performs simple songs and gradually progresses to more challenging pieces as students gain confidence and proficiency on their chosen instruments.

No prior musical experience is required to join this ensemble.
 

This band is an intermediate-level class for students who have already acquired some experience playing musical instruments. Students continue to explore and refine their abilities on their instruments chosen in the sixth grade beginner band.

In seventh grade band, students delve deeper into music theory, sight-reading and more complex musical compositions. They also develop a greater understanding of musical expression, dynamics, and ensemble playing, working together to create harmonious and engaging performances. Concerts and performances become more intricate and may include a wider range of musical styles. The seventh grade band experience is a crucial step in a student's musical development as they progress toward more advanced levels of musical proficiency.
 

Eighth grade band is an advanced-level music class for students who have honed their musical skills over the years. In this band, students are typically highly proficient in playing their chosen instruments, which can include woodwinds, brass and percussion. Students continue to build upon their knowledge of music theory, sight-reading and ensemble techniques. They explore more complex and challenging musical compositions, requiring a greater level of precision and musicality.

This class introduces students to a wider variety of musical genres and styles, allowing them to broaden their musical horizons. Students have opportunities to participate in competitions and festivals, showcasing their refined skills.

This grade level serves as a critical stepping stone for those students who wish to continue their musical journey into high school band.

High school band is an exhilarating and immersive musical experience that offers students the opportunity to further develop their musical talents and passion for music. This advanced-level program brings together a diverse group of dedicated musicians who have honed their skills over years of practice and performance. The emphasis in high school band is on ensemble playing and precision, where musicians collaborate to create stunning and harmonious performances. This class includes more frequent and demanding rehearsals, culminating in numerous concerts, competitions and even opportunities for regional and national recognition.

The curriculum in high school band goes beyond the basics, diving deep into music theory, composition and advanced techniques specific to each instrument. Students also explore a rich repertoire of music, encompassing classical, jazz, contemporary, and even world music genres, allowing them to expand their musical horizons.

High school band is not only about musical excellence but also about fostering teamwork, discipline and a strong sense of camaraderie among its members. It provides a supportive environment for students to explore their creativity, express themselves through their instruments and experience the thrill of making music together. For those passionate about music, high school band class serves as a crucial stepping stone to future musical endeavors, whether that be in college-level ensembles, professional careers in music or a lifelong appreciation for the art.

Jazz Band is an exhilarating course where students explore the vibrant world of jazz music, and perfect their skills on their chosen instrument. They delve deep into jazz theory, improvisation, and diverse jazz styles, fostering ensemble cohesion and groove. Performances at concerts and jazz festivals allow students to showcase their talents and stage presence, cultivating a lasting love for jazz and improvisation. This course not only promotes musical excellence but also nurtures individual voices, making it an enriching experience for those pursuing music careers or lifelong jazz enthusiasts.

Junior high winter guard is an exciting extracurricular program that offers students the opportunity to immerse themselves in the art of color guard performance during the winter season. This dynamic activity combines elements of dance, flag spinning, rifle tosses and intricate choreography to create visually stunning routines set to music.

Students in junior high winter guard refine their technique, develop teamwork skills and enhance their stage presence as they prepare for competitions and showcases. This course not only cultivates a strong sense of discipline and creativity but also fosters a sense of camaraderie among its members, making it a memorable and rewarding experience for young performers looking to explore the world of indoor color guard.
 

High school winter guard is an exhilarating and advanced-level extracurricular program that immerses students in the art of color guard during the winter months. This captivating activity combines dance, flag work, rifle spinning and intricate choreography to create visually compelling performances set to music. Students in high school winter guard refine their skills, focusing on precision, artistry and emotional expression as they prepare for regional and national competitions.

This course not only demands dedication and teamwork but also encourages individual growth, instilling discipline and fostering a strong sense of unity among its members. High school winter guard is a transformative experience for performers who are passionate about the art form and seek to push their boundaries as artists.
 

Indoor percussion ensemble is an exhilarating and highly specialized musical program that provides students with the opportunity to explore percussion performance in an indoor setting. This dynamic activity features a diverse range of percussion instruments such as drums, marimbas, xylophones, and synthesizers, combining intricate rhythmic patterns, visual choreography, and captivating music to create breathtaking and synchronized performances.

Students in indoor percussion ensemble refine their technique, develop precise timing, and learn the art of ensemble playing, preparing for competitive events and captivating audiences with their precision and artistry. This course not only demands dedication, discipline and teamwork but also nurtures individual musicianship, making it a transformative experience for percussionists who are passionate about pushing the boundaries of their craft.