Senior High Band
“Music for the sake of music." Any responsible music educator will emphatically echo this important mantra; it is the keystone theme that serves as the foundation of music teaching, music learning, and music performance. There is no substitute or replacement for music-making as it relates to the positive growth and development of the human mind, body, and spirit. Participation in band avails the musician to the infinite journey of creative expression connecting to a language (music) that is understood, communicated, and appreciated by all of mankind around the globe. More importantly, MUSIC IS A PLACE FOR EVERYONE.
Parents must know there’s far more to the band than buying an instrument, taking private lessons, adding music class to the school schedule, and rehearsing for a concert. Being a musician maps the human mind for success; success in all avenues of life. The learned skills needed to excel in music are transferable to every academic subject. Playing a musical instrument creates a multi-dimensional template-of-quality adaptable (and applicable) to every personal and professional challenge.
Through music learning we teach:
- An understanding of QUALITY as well as the rewards of QUANTITY.
- Behavior based on ETHICS as well as the importance of obeying the RULES.
- Respect for AUTHORITY as opposed to fear of DOMINATION.
- A working WISDOM as well as a solid transcript of ACHIEVEMENT.
- An ongoing development of INNER PEACE as well as a workable plan for personal SECURITY.
The above is a from a chapter written for the Teaching Music Through Performance in Band series by Tim Lautzenheiser, published by GIA Publications. While it is directed (specifically) to the band idiom, the essence of the message is applicable for ALL music/arts areas.
Who should study music? Who should be in band?
Music is a place for everyone. Our traditional music programs have inadvertently promoted a false concept of “music is for the musically talented students." This elitist view has found its way to more people than we might expect. The study of music actually breaks down societal barriers from race to socioeconomic strata. Music often “reaches" the students who are struggling with their other academic studies. Advanced brain research continues to verify and confirm all brains are “wired for music.”
The ACE Senior High Band program contains a number of unique components intended to provide the best well-rounded overall band experience. Throughout the year, these components are offered as actual classes while some experiences happen as before or after school activities. Senior High Band I is the continuation of the band curriculum from the junior high band program and is intended for those who have at least one year of experience on an instrument. Senior High Advanced Band II-V is offered at the high school level for those who have been in the band at least two or more years. Both classes help continue to build upon the musical skills and knowledge from previous years. We also offer a Percussion Ensemble class. This class is geared towards those who play percussion. In this class, we develop skills on all percussion instruments and performance techniques. The class explores music not only that the concert bands are performing, but also music written specifically for percussion ensemble performance. So, there is a place for everyone in the Senior High Band Program!
What other band opportunities are there for high school band scholars?
The ACE Band program contains a number of unique components intended to provide the best well-rounded overall band experience. Scholars are able to join the ACE Gryphon Marching Band which performs at all varsity football games during the season. We provide spirit and excitement in the stands as well as perform a themed show at halftime. The marching band also attends marching competitions, parades, and other community events. We also do pep band for varsity basketball games. In class, we work on different types of small ensemble music, such as brass, woodwind, and percussion. We are also developing our jazz band program after school. All these ensembles perform for concerts and other events to represent ACE in the community. For the individual scholars, there are opportunities to excel with auditions for District, Region, and All-State level ensembles, College honor bands, GHP auditions, and other state events like Solo and Ensemble.
What are the costs involved when you join band?
Each Scholar is expected to rent or purchase an instrument to be a part of the program. Companies are provided or guidelines for renting or purchasing from your own source will be provided. (Extra-curricular ensembles like Marching Band carry a separate fee. )
Can I still participate in other activities? Yes! We share scholars with all other performing and fine arts classes, academic programs, and all sports programs. Here at ACE, we strive for our scholars to use their knowledge, leadership abilities, and skills wherever they can have their talents shine.
