Band

Students will learn the foundational techniques of instrumental performance. With the exception of percussion, no previous music experience necessary. Band consists of the following instruments: flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, baritone, tuba, concert percussion (not drum set). Specialty instruments (piccolo, bass clarinet, baritone saxophone, french horn, and piano/keyboards) are typically not offered at this level.

Students will need to rent/purchase an instrument, a music stand for at-home practice, instrument-specific supplies, and a red Standard of Excellence book, which is instrument-specific, as well.

*Percussion students: Students who wish to learn percussion MUST have a minimum of one year of piano and have the ability to read simple melodies on the treble clef. Students in our percussion section learn both snare drum and mallets (xylophone, bells, etc) equally.

*This class does not accept new students 2nd semester

Students will continue to build upon the techniques of instrumental performance. At least one full year of experience on their instrument is required. Our band program consists of the following instruments: flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, baritone, tuba, concert percussion (not drum set). Specialty instruments (piccolo, bass clarinet, baritone saxophone, french horn, and piano/keyboards) may begin to be offered at this level.

Students will need to rent/purchase an instrument, a music stand for at-home practice, instrument-specific supplies, and a blue Standard of Excellence book, which is instrument-specific, as well.

Concert Band is our upper-level instrumental performing ensemble. Students must be at least 14 years of age, and have had a minimum of 2 full years of instrumental experience in order to perform this level of concert repertoire.

Students will need to rent/purchase an instrument, a music stand for at-home practice, instrument-specific supplies, and a green Standard of Excellence book, which is instrument-specific, as well. Participation in WSMA Solo & Ensemble will be highly encouraged.

Learn the fundamentals of Jazz Music! Students in this ensemble will explore Jazz genres such as Swing, Rock, Blues, and Latin grooves. Students will begin to learn to solo and improvise in an encouraging setting, while enjoying the challenges of syncopation and blues scales. Students MUST be registered for either Cadet or Concert Band in order to participate. All instruments from band are welcome, with limited options for drum set, bass & electric guitar, and keyboards.

This audition-only Jazz band is for serious musicians who enjoy the Jazz medium. Students will be auditioned in the fall, and must be proficient players. Instrumentation is limited to 2 alto saxophones, 2 tenor saxophones, 1 bari sax, 3-4 trumpets, 3-4 trombones, 2 set/aux percussion, 1 bass guitar, 1 electric guitar, and 1-2 keyboard players. Students will work with challenging literature, and possibly participate in the WSMA District/State Solo & Ensemble competitions.

Provides the opportunity for children to learn basic music note reading, rhythm, and performance through the use of simple songs and exercises, folk songs, hymns, and common tunes. No previous experience necessary. Tin Whistle class is $85 per semester. Music is included in class cost. Students will have to purchase a Tin Whistle in the key of D.

Intermediate Tin Whistle class (only for students who have previously completed at least 2 semesters of tin whistle class). Tin Whistle class is $85 per semester. Music is included in class cost. Students will need a Tin Whistle in the key of D.

Both experienced and new students can register for this class. Students will work together playing as an ensemble while becoming familiarized with different beat combinations, rhythm styles, and notation.

Serious, experienced percussionists can register for this class. Students will work together playing percussion ensemble literature, exploring percussion instruments, different beat combinations, rhythm styles, and notation. Students will also participate in WSMA festivals.

TrouWorship is a student-led ensemble for high school musicians who desire to grow in leading Christ-centered worship. Designed for a small group of vocalists and instrumentalists (guitar, bass, drums, and keys), this class explores four core areas: the purpose and structure of worship teams, current worship repertoire, arranging and composing original music, and preparing for a culminating evening of worship at Belfry Hall.

Auditions: Late August/Early September

Class description coming soon!

The Wisconsin School Music Association (WSMA) holds a variety of events throughout the school year for young musicians. In the development of our students' playing abilities, the Solo & Ensemble District Festival is invaluable. Students prepare solos, duets, trios, etc. to perform for adjudicators who specialize in their instrument, providing specific feedback geared towards their growth. Musicians who place well can even move on to the State-level Festival.

Since the festivals take place at the end of February/beginning of March, Troubadours will be offering an extended time on Thursday mornings during first semester to select music, practice with others, and receive helpful input on their pieces. Registration is required. Whether your student is considering a vocal or instrumental piece to perform, I would highly encourage students to participate. Students can use the full time to practice, or schedule specific times with Mrs. LaFrombois for lessons during the morning each week. Space is limited.

More about WSMA Solo & Ensemble

Advanced students interested in playing in the Pit Band for the musical Suessical: contact Mrs. LaFrombois.