BAND CURRICULUM IN BRIEF
Wind Ensemble
The Wind Ensemble is the highest level performing organization in the instrumental music department during the winter and spring. Membership is by audition only. The Wind Ensemble will be comprised of students with the performing ability necessary to play level V-VI literature.
Concert Band
The Concert Band is comprised of students with the performing ability necessary to perform level IV-V music. Membership requires successful completion of middle school band.
Marching Band
Membership in the marching band requires strenuous physical exercise and the ability to play the difficult literature encountered in the activity. Students must be enrolled in both semesters of either Concert Band or Wind Ensemble to be eligible for Blackhawk Marching Band. Exceptions for students with especially rigorous schedules are made on an individual basis with Mr. Bordeman. The marching band meets after school on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and performs in the fall.
Jazz Band and Jazz ComboStudents may elect to audition for the Blackhawk Jazz Band. The jazz band plays for community events and performs throughout the winter and spring.
Chamber Ensembles
During the fall and spring, chamber ensembles will be formed. ALL band members will be encouraged to perform in a chamber ensemble. Possible groups would be Woodwind Quintet, Brass Quintet, Saxophone Quartet, Horn Ensemble, Trombone Quartet, Low Brass Ensemble, Flute Choir, Clarinet Choir, Percussion Ensemble. There will be a chamber concert in the spring and opportunity for performance at Solo and Ensemble Music Performance Adjudication (MPA).
Colorguard and WinterGuard
Students who are interested in dance, choreography, and movement may choose to audition for our marching band’s colorguard and/or winter colorguard. Practice / Interest sessions are held in the fall and spring for those interested in these highly competitive performing ensembles.
Percussion Ensemble and Indoor Drumline
All percussionists will be encouraged to participate in the percussion ensemble in the spring. Students may also choose to participate in our Indoor Drumline. Students learn basic fundamentals on all the percussion instruments and will explore many styles and genres.