Symphonic Band & Wind Ensemble

Matthew Kruse, Director of Bands

Symphonic Band

Symphonic Band (Band I) is for 9th grade students and students in grades 10-12 who are switching instruments or have recently started an instrument. It is a foundational course to the high school band experience. Students will build upon knowledge of music literacy, vocabulary, expression, skills and techniques as it relates to their woodwind, brass or percussion instrument and their role within the instrumental ensemble. Students will demonstrate their learning through school and community performances. Students are required to participate in Marching Band and Pep Band.

Wind Ensemble

Wind Ensemble (Band 2, Band 3, Band 4) is for students in grades 10-12 who have at least 4 years of playing experience. It is the advanced band class and offers an increasingly difficult repertoire. Students will demonstrate their learning through school and community performances.

Students will also develop leadership and teamwork skills through opportunities such as section leader, Band ASB officers, and Drum Major. Students are required to participate in Marching Band and Pep Band.

Fees & Scholarships

An annual student class fee will cover some uniform items, cleaning costs, and access to a music education platform. (up to $150)

Financial assistance with fees is available. Please contact Mr. Kruse or LWHS Band+Jazz Boosters.

Towards Excellence: Events & Expectations

MUSIC EDUCATION

Our band curriculum focuses on two main areas: Ensemble Skills and Individual Musicianship Skills.

Ensemble skills are developed in class when prepared students play together. Our ensembles engage with a diverse band repertoire that requires students to practice and enhance their instrumental and sight-reading abilities outside class to perform effectively.

Individual Musicianship Skills involve mastering scales, articulation, rhythms, musical styles, and instruments. To support individual musicianship, students receive a subscription to MakeMusic, a platform that offers a wealth of learning resources and exercises for musicians on every instrument. Students are encouraged to seek private instruction and participate in various music festivals, camps, workshops, and contests.

PERFORMANCES & EVENTS

The Bands + Jazz Programs are performing arts programs, meaning performances are both required and graded. These performances typically occur outside the school day, and may involve locations beyond the school. Transportation by families may sometimes be required. Some events will required additional rehearsals scheduled outside the school day, such as on an evening or weekend.

The Symphonic Band & Wind Ensemble perform five concerts annually and participate in band festivals during school hours. Participation in Marching Band and Pep Band at football and basketball games also required, contributing to the students' grades.

CONCERTS

Scheduled for November, December, February, March, and June. Usually a Wednesday evening. Other events or special concerts are possible.

CONCERT EXPECTATIONS

Call time is 6 PM for a 7 PM concert, with details provided in advance.

Concert dress is all black, including slacks, blouses, or dresses, and excludes black jeans or sneakers.

Students are required to stay for the entire concert, and help with moving chairs, stands, and instruments following the event. Families are encouraged to model good concert manners by also staying for the entire concert.

Calendar & Schedule for Symphonic Band

PERFORMANCES & FESTIVALS

June 6: Band+Orchestra Student and Family Banquet & Awards Night. 6 pm in The Commons at LWHS. Note: This is a Saturday.
June 10: LWHS Spring Band & Orchestra Concert at LWHS 7pm (call time 6pm)
June 16: Commencement Ceremony @ UW Alaska Airlines Arena 7:30-9:30pm (call time TBD)

COMPETITIONS (OPTIONAL)