Beginning Band is taught in Easter semester to sixth grade and in the Advent semester to seventh grade. The course requires the rental or purchase of an individual instrument, which is facilitated by the band director. Instruments include flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, baritone, tuba and percussion. This performance-based class will focus on technique, tone, tuning, and will build a foundation for students’ understanding of music and how to express themselves through playing an instrument. The semester culminates with a concert performance. Online learners will not be able to participate in Beginning Band as a student will need to be physically present to receive instruction.

Intermediate Band is open to seventh and eighth graders who have completed Beginning Band. This class is a single semester class offered both semesters. Intermediate Band will require the continued rental or purchase of an individual instrument for their instrument. This performance-based class will continue building focus on technique, tone, tuning, and will build a foundation for students’ understanding of music and how to express themselves through playing an instrument. The semester will culminate with at least two concert performances. Online learners will be able to participate in Intermediate Band, with the knowledge they will be required to participate and stay on track with what the Intermediate Band is doing in class.

Symphonic Band is open to any Upper School student who has successfully completed at least 2 years (4 semesters) of band or who can show music competencies equal to, or above, those who have completed that curriculum. This class is a semester course and will require continuing the rental or purchase of an individual instrument (except percussion) from Beginning or Intermediate Band. This performance-based class will continue to build upon the technical studies and musical competencies learned though the band curriculum and will have more frequent performance opportunities. Students may be asked to perform solo or with another performing group for a concert or Mass. Students will also have the opportunity to travel and perform in a variety of community settings with the goal of increasing connections with the Macon community. Students may be an online learner, with the knowledge they will be required to participate and stay on track with what the Symphonic Band is doing in class.

The Marching Cavaliers meet after the regular school day twice weekly to prepare music for halftime of football games, pep rallies, parades, and other special occasions throughout the school year. This group is open to any 8th-12th grade student with at least one full year of a band class for wind players, and approval by staff for Drumline and Colorguard. There are no auditions for the Marching Cavaliers, however, students wanting to be a part of the Drumline and Color Guard will need to attend spring training camp in April. Information about the Marching Cavaliers will be available starting in late February.