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BAND

ENSEMBLES  

Freshman Concert Band

Instructor: Kevin Mazzarella, Caitlin Serpliss

4 days per week

Freshman Concert Band is open to all 9th grade students who play a wind or percussion instrument. The FCB studies artistically, intellectually, and emotionally challenging quality band literature appropriate to the grade level. In order to progress properly on their instruments, students who are not taking private lessons outside of school are required to schedule a 15-minute weekly lesson during a free period, concurrently during an ensemble, during lunch or before or after school. Lesson assessment will be part of the course grade. The FCB performs at concerts and the Memorial Day Parade. 

Symphonic Band

Instructor: Kevin Mazzarella, Caitlin Serpliss

4 days per week

Symphonic Band, SHS’s premiere band ensemble, is open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors who play a wind or percussion instrument. The Symphonic Band studies musically challenging band literature of a significant level of difficulty. In order to provide diverse learning opportunities and foster student independence and leadership, sectional rehearsals and chamber music workshops are integrated into the class structure. This ensemble combines with members of the Symphonic Orchestra – Strings for several concerts each year for performance of full orchestra repertoire. The Symphonic Band performs at concerts and the Memorial Day Parade. 

 

Students in the Symphonic Band participate in the Candlelight and Pops Concerts as part of large festival ensembles combining band, orchestra, and choir. This is a unique opportunity for students to perform masterworks and apply their skills in an inspiring, collaborative environment that highlights the unity and talent of our entire music program.

Jazz Ensemble

Instructor: Kevin Mazzarella

Jazz Ensemble is open to advanced wind/percussion students who wish to explore the Jazz idiom. Students are selected by audition in June of the prior school year and must be a member of a Staples band, chorus, or orchestra. Jazz Ensemble meets one afternoon per week for an in-depth jazz study and rehearsal. One weekly sectional is also required. Jazz Ensemble performs at school functions, festivals, community events, and concerts during the school year. Students do not register for this course until after the audition.

Jazz Workshop

Instructor: Gregg Winters

Jazz Lab at Staples High School is designed for students to learn the foundations of jazz styles and improvisation. This group performs multiple times throughout the year, including at the Jazz & Java concert and various off-site venues around Westport. Jazz Lab operates as an independent ensemble and serves as a preparatory group for students aiming to join the SHS Jazz Ensemble.

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