Instrumental Music

The Northwest High School Instrumental Music Department consists of the following full time and part-time organizations: 

A. Full-time organizations

i. Symphonic Band – This class is designed for the more experienced players in grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. 9th grade students must have the Director’s permission to enroll. Entrance into this class is by audition or approval of the Director. The Symphonic Band performs for concerts and band festivals throughout the year.

ii. Concert Band – This class is for furthering the development of musical abilities. Students with less or no ensemble experience or having schedule conflicts are also enrolled in this class. The Concert Band performs for concerts throughout the year.

iii. Jazz Band - This is a smaller class specifically devoted to playing jazz styles of music. Entrance into this class is by audition or approval of the Director, and will strictly adhere to standard big band instrumentation (5 saxophones, 4 trombones, 5 trumpets, and possibly 2 players on each rhythm part). The Director may ask students from other performing groups to also play in the Jazz Ensemble to assure good instrumentation. The Jazz Band performs frequently throughout the year for community events, concerts, and jazz festivals.

iv. Symphonic Orchestra - This class is designed for the more experienced players in grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. 9th grade students must have the Director’s permission to enroll. Entrance into this class is by audition or approval of the Director. The Orchestra performs for concerts throughout the year, and may perform for festival.

v. Concert Orchestra - This is a beginning to moderate level string class that accommodates many ability levels. Students play violin, viola, cello, and string bass.  The Orchestra performs for concerts throughout the year.

Students with scheduling problems should see the director for assistance. At Northwest High School there is never a reason not to play music!

B.  Additional Organizations

i. Marching Band - This group performs during the fall semester. It is comprised of volunteer members of the Northwest community. Members play woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments as well as perform with flags in the color guard. This organization also performs in at least four competitions in the fall.

ii. Chamber Symphonic Orchestra – This after school orchestra gives more advanced wind and string musicians the opportunity to play challenging repertoire. This group will represent Northwest at festivals and trips. Please see the director for further details.

iii. Spring Musical Pit Orchestra – By audition only. Accompanies the spring musical.

iv. County/State Performing Groups – These honor ensembles are created with student representative from around the county and state. Members are chosen by audition. Students must be a member of the school instrumental music department and be recommended by the Director.

Students who are unable to enroll in a music class are encouraged to participate in the instrumental music program, with the understanding that they are committing to the same goals and objectives as students who are taking classes for credit. Non-enrolled students are expected to support the program by their participation in rehearsals and by performing with the music organizations. Students wishing to be eligible for County and State-sponsored events such as All-State and Solo and Ensemble Festival must be enrolled in an instrumental music course. Students wishing to go on trips must be in the class that is taking the trip both semesters.