Concert Band is a performance-based course which is designed to teach the basic fundamentals of wind and percussion playing. Students will work through method books, rhythm exercises, scales and selective high school wind literature (Grade III through Grade IV) according to the ratings of the Maryland Band Directors Association, to develop these skills.

Wind Ensemble is a performance-based course, which is designed to challenge the students in all aspects of wind and percussion playing. Students will be performing advanced high school (Grade IV) and college-level literature (Grades V or VI) according to the ratings of the Maryland Band Directors Association. Emphasis will be placed on musical elements such as phrasing, interpretation, ensemble techniques, and intonation. Students participating in this ensemble are also encouraged to create small chamber ensembles to develop a repertoire of solo and small ensemble work, and a more soloistic style of playing. Students participating in this ensemble often audition for All County, and participate in solo and ensemble, along with several other music organizations.

Orchestra is a performance-based course which is designed to teach the basic fundamentals of string orchestra playing. Students will work through method books, rhythm exercises, scales and selective high school string orchestra literature (Grade II through Grade IV) according to the ratings of the Maryland Orchestra Directors Association, to develop these skills.

Honors Orchestra is a performance-based course, which is designed to challenge the students in all aspects of string orchestra performance. Students will be performing advanced high school (Grade IV) and college-level literature (Grades V or VI) according to the ratings of the Maryland Orchestra Directors Association. Emphasis will be placed on musical elements such as phrasing, interpretation, ensemble techniques, and intonation. Students participating in this ensemble are also encouraged to create small chamber ensembles to develop a repertoire of solo and small ensemble work, and a more soloistic style of playing. Students participating in this ensemble often audition for All County, and participate in solo and ensemble, along with several other music organizations.

Jazz Ensemble provides the opportunity for the study of dance band, jazz, and popular music. The stylistic elements of performance as well as some of the important artists and music of the jazz and popular field will be studied. Students participating in this ensemble will have several opportunities to perform in the school and outside in the community, including Westminster’s Flower and Jazz Festival. Each year the Jazz Program develops based upon student interest. At times it is offered as a curricular ensemble (class) and at times it is offered as an extra-curricular ensemble. Some years we have multiple jazz groups focusing on different levels and styles of jazz music.

Most years, WHS has two extension groups to the marching band which rehearse and perform during the winter and spring. Generally, these groups explore the areas of percussion and color guard in directions that they may never have before. At times these groups may be competitive, similar to the WHS Marching Band, however the level of commitment is not as great, with only 1 or 2 practices per week. Students have an opportunity to learn how to play a new instrument or continue to improve and develop the skills necessary to be in competition programs like the WHS Marching Band. The Indoor Performance Ensembles will have multiple opportunities to perform during the season. These groups do have a fee associated with them to help pay for instruction, equipment, and travel expenses. Details for Indoor Performance Ensembles are shared with students and parents in November/December most years. Please note that this group is not offered/available every year – the existence of the Indoor Performance Ensembles is dependent on time available and student interest.

Marching band has evolved from simple entertainment into a very serious sport and art form. It makes use of musicians and dancers, where the final product is a combination of music, athletics and choreography in a competitive arena. Students perform a 6-9 minute show of music that is totally memorized with over 50 pages of movement unique to each band member.

Marching Band FAQ

The Color Guard is a section of the WHS Marching Band that interprets and performs visual accompaniment to the music of the band. Students in Color Guard may be asked to dance, spin flags, spin rifles, or perform with other objects during the Marching Band performance. Color Guard is open to any interested WHS students. Please see the Marching Band FAQ for more information.