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BAND

ENSEMBLES  

Freshman Concert Band

Instructor: Phil Giampietro

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. Students may also enroll in Pep Band (see Pep Band description).

Symphonic Band

Instructor: Phil Giampietro

4 days per week

Symphonic Band, SHS’s premiere band ensemble, is open to juniors and seniors who play a wind or percussion instrument. Sophomores may be admitted to this advanced level group through a rigorous audition process held in February. The SB studies artistically, intellectually and emotionally challenging band literature of a significant level of difficulty. In order to continue to progress properly on their instruments, students who are not taking private lessons outside of school will be required to schedule a weekly 15-minute lesson during a free period, concurrently during an ensemble, lunch or before or after school. Lesson assessment will be part of the course grade. The SB performs at concerts and the Memorial Day Parade. Students may also enroll in Pep Band (see Pep Band description).

Jazz Ensemble

Instructor: Phil Giampietro

Jazz Ensemble is open to advanced wind/percussion students who wish to explore the Jazz idiom. Students are selected by audition in early September and must be members of Staples bands, choruses or orchestras. Jazz Ensemble meets one afternoon per week for an in-depth jazz study and rehearsal. The Jazz Ensemble plays for school functions, attends jazz band competitions, and plays concerts during the school year. Do not register for this course until after the September audition.

Pep Band

Instructor: Phil Giampietro

Students enrolled in Freshman, Sophomore and Symphonic Bands may enroll in Pep Band. The Pep Band plays at all Staples home football games. 

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