BAND
Junior School
Students will learn rhythm and listening skills during music class; orff instruments, like the xylophone, are used regularly to apply these skills. Sudents are introduced to the recorder and begin reading and applying musical annotation. This, in addition to more extensive work on barred and percussion instruments, is a precursor to applied music in Wesleyan's middle school instrumental programs. Wesleyan also offers the opportunity for lower school students to enroll in private music lessons.
Junior School
Beginning in 7th grade, students can select a one-semester class called Intro to Band. They will learn the fundamentals of the brass, woodwinds, and percussion families. In 6th grade, students begin learning and will perform on an instrument of their choice-flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon, trumpet, French horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, or percussion. 7th and 8th-grade students with at least one year of experience may choose to enroll in Advanced Band. Extracurricular activities, including marching band and basketball band, are also available to middle school students.
Senior School
Students at an intermediate or advanced ability level can register for symphonic band in high school. Symphonic band is a year-long class that requires previous band experience; classes are offered for woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. Symphonic band is a performance-based class and includes various performances throughout the year. Extracurricular activities, including marching band and basketball band are also available to high school students.
MARCHING BAND
Marching Band is a fall extra-curricular activity that practices after school and is open to students in 7th - 12th grade. The marching band rehearses three days per week, performs at all home and away football games, and performs at occasional events on Saturdays (exhibitions, festivals, or competitions). The band plays pep tunes in the stands and performs a halftime show. The marching band also includes a color guard open to girls in 7th - 12th grade. The color guard performs using dance, flags, and other types of equipment.
BASKETBALL BAND
Basketball Band is a winter extra-curricular activity open to all band members in 5th - 12th grade. The group performs at all varsity basketball home games starting in January. Students in the group have the opportunity to expand their skills by learning a variety of pieces in the rock, jazz and pop genres.
