CURRICULAR GROUPS

Wind Ensemble

The Wind Ensemble is a selective, auditioned group composed primarily of juniors and seniors and is the most advanced instrumental ensemble offered at Willow Spring. These students represent mature, experienced band members. The Wind Ensemble performs Grade V and VI music, as well as works typically performed by collegiate ensembles, based on the North Carolina Bandmasters Association (NCBA) state lists.

This group may travel and perform more frequently than the Symphonic Band and Concert Band. Whenever possible, at least three weeks' notice will be given for any additional performances. Students are required to attend all outside-of-class performances and rehearsals. If a scheduled event is missed without a valid excuse, the student will receive a grade of “0” for that event, recorded as a test grade (the director will determine the validity of the excuse).

The Wind Ensemble is an honors-level course. Students are expected to be enrolled for both semesters.

Symphonic Band

The Symphonic Band is the mid-level band class at Willow Spring. This ensemble is composed of sophomores through seniors who have demonstrated mastery of their instruments in Concert Band. Membership is granted by director approval through audition.

The Symphonic Band performs Grade IV and V music based on the NCBA state lists. This ensemble will perform and travel more frequently than the Concert Band. Whenever possible, at least three weeks' notice will be given for any additional performances. Students are required to attend all outside-of-class performances and rehearsals. If a scheduled event is missed without a valid excuse, the student will receive a grade of “0” for that event, recorded as a test grade (the director will determine the validity of the excuse).

The Symphonic Band is a mixed standard/honors-level course. Students wishing to receive honors credit will have additional musical experiences to complete. Students are expected to be enrolled for both semesters.

Concert Band

All freshmen band students take Concert Band unless they successfully audition for Symphonic Band. This class serves as the transition and development-level band from middle school and performs Grade III and IV music based on the NCBA state lists. Concert Band is not to be considered a less important or less serious band class; it is the “growing” area for both the Wind Ensemble and the Marching Band.

Additionally, upperclassmen may take this class if they wish to learn a new instrument. Concert Band is a non-honors course. Students are expected to be enrolled for both semesters.

Percussion Ensemble

Some years, a separate Percussion Ensemble meets as its own class. In other years, the percussion sections of each band class will perform separately, focusing on all aspects of percussion. The band director will place students in the appropriate level course.