Symphonic Winds      Symphonic Band     Concert Band
Chamber Winds/Percussion       Jazz Ensemble      Percussive Arts

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SYMPHONIC WINDS

By audition only – The Symphonic Winds will be composed of students with performing ability necessary for proper performances of level 5 or 6 band literature.  This is the primary performing organization in the instrumental music department during the winter and spring.  In past years the Symphonic Winds have performed at many music conferences and conventions.  Invitational performances include the Midwest Clinic and NAI.  In 2000 they were the only band in the United States to be awarded the Sudler Flag of Honor.

SYMPHONIC BAND

The Symphonic Band will be a performing organization open to all students with the necessary performing ability.  Younger band persons should expect to be assigned to this band unless their playing abilities far exceed the average level of their experiences.  This ensemble performs literature (III, IV & V) commensurate with their grade level.  The Symphonic Band has performed at Irmo Band concerts, the South Carolina State Concert Festival, the annual Spring Concert and the National Adjudicators Invitational in Atlanta each spring.

NOTE: All students must participate in the Marching Band in order to be considered for placement in the Symphonic Winds and Symphonic Band unless other arrangements have been made.  Any student, if qualified, may participate in the Concert Band regardless of marching band experience.

CONCERT BAND

Concert Band is for all students who are not interested in Marching Band, or students who did not qualify for the Symphonic Winds or the Symphonic Band in the previous spring auditions.  All members of this band must have the consent of the Director for participation.

JAZZ ENSEMBLE

By audition only, the Jazz Ensemble consists of saxophones, trumpets, trombones, tubas, and a rhythm section.  Wind members and the drummer must be a member in a major performing ensemble.  Other rhythm section members may come from outside the band proper if there is not an available member from the band proper.

CHAMBER WINDS AND PERCUSSION

In this course, emphasis is placed on the student who is interested in preparing for a career in music.  Everyone performs in small ensembles as is deemed by the enrollment.  Emphasis is placed on musical language, auditioning and interviewing.  Rudimental and fundamental work on rhythm, tone, intonation, style and interpretation is also a primary focus.  All members of this class must have the consent of the Director for participation.

PERCUSSIVE ARTS

A course designed to meet the needs of the advancing percussionist who is enrolled in Band I, II, III, and IV.  Emphasis is placed on fundamental rudiments, small chamber ensemble performance, battery percussion and mallet technique.  All members of this class must have the consent of the Director for participation.