EXTRA-CURRICULAR GROUPS

Extra-Curricular Groups meet after school, much like athletic teams. These groups are often the most visible part of the band program and travel the most. Participation in a Curricular Group is a prerequisite for joining these ensembles. Some groups require director approval or an audition.

Read below to learn more about each of our Extra-Curricular Groups.

Marching Band

The Willow Spring Sound of the Storm Marching Band (which includes the color guard) meets entirely after school as a full ensemble. It performs at all home varsity football games, learns an artistic show for local, regional, and national competitions, and represents Willow Spring in area parades. The marching band is often the most visible band on campus, and due to the nature of the activity, this ensemble requires the most out-of-school rehearsals, performances, time, and financial commitment. While some of the marching band music will be rehearsed in band classes, the majority of marching band activities occur outside of the regular school day.

More About Marching Band

Jazz Band

The Jazz Band is an auditioned traditional big band consisting of saxophones, trumpets, trombones, and a rhythm section. The band performs traditional jazz, Latin, and rock music from the 1920s to the modern era. Jazz band begins in early January and meets twice a week after school. The band performs at most school concerts, as well as several area jazz festivals. Performances will be announced at least three weeks in advance. Membership in this group is by audition.

Some years, a second group, the Jazz Orchestra, is offered as a “lab” group designed to let students explore jazz music and new instruments in a low-key, supportive environment. This group allows students who play non-traditional jazz instruments to learn a new instrument so they can audition for jazz band if they choose. Typically, clarinet players learn saxophone; horn players learn trumpet; and euphonium or tuba players learn trombone. This group meets once a week during the spring semester and is open to all Willow Spring High School students.

Indoor Percussion

The Willow Spring Indoor Percussion (WSIP) is new this year. Indoor percussion ensembles are similar to the drumline and front ensemble in high school marching bands but perform inside gymnasiums on a special tarp. These groups learn music and drill, competing in circuits and classes that match their resources and skills. Indoor percussion focuses on percussion-specific techniques and performance, offering students a chance to hone their craft in a specialized setting.

To join WSIP, students must be active members of the Willow Spring band program and in good standing socially and financially. Members should already be familiar with musical notation, as the competitive nature of the group requires quick learning. Regular attendance at rehearsals is mandatory unless excused for emergencies.

Winter Guard

The Winter Guard begins about one week after marching band ends and meets throughout the Spring Semester, with rehearsals taking place entirely outside of the school day. The winter guard typically rehearses 2-3 nights per week. This group travels and competes in local, regional, and national contests. Parents who can assist with sewing flags, helping with makeup and hair, and providing other assistance during rehearsals and performances are needed to volunteer their time.

The winter guard receives no funding from WCPSS, so there is a membership fee. All members are expected to participate in fundraisers to help keep costs down for everyone.

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Pit
Orchestra

The Pit Orchestra is a group of advanced students that provides live music for the WSHS Fine Arts Department’s spring musical. Instrumentation is based on the needs of each year’s show, and students apply to join the group. A small audition may be held to determine students’ ability to read quickly, learn music individually, and transpose. Information about the pit orchestra is generally released in November, once the show is announced and personnel needs are determined.

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