Miami Killian High School

Director of Bands

Mr. John Bixby

Assistant Director of Bands: Alex Guarida   Cougarette Instructor: Jeff Hammonds

Alex Guardia

Jeff Hammonds

Band Information

ENSEMBLE ELIGIBILITY

In order to promote maximum impact, students will be divided into ability levels based primarily upon a yearly entry-level audition occurring in May. Student auditions are recorded, and the critique is “blind.” Once scores have been tallied, students are placed in one of three ensembles based upon instrumentation requirements, and their audition scores. Since the auditions are recorded, they may be used to assess progress and/or to discuss student strengths and weaknesses. An open chair audition occurs in August for any chairs that remain open following the May auditions. Some students who want to participate on a higher level may choose to crossover to other needed instruments such as bass clarinet, bassoon, or French horn. They may audition for open chairs in the fall provided they do so on the instrument they intend on performing in class. During the first week of class, all students review performance fundamentals such as tone production, and technique. Technique is assessed by a Scales test during the second week of school. Reseating is also determined by the results of this assessment.

• Symphonic Band

  This ensemble is open to students who meet minimum performance standards on a wind or percussion instrument. Students are expected to try and obtain the highest quality instrument, mouthpiece, and/or mallets available. All students in this ensemble must prepare a grade 4 or higher solo from the F.B.A. list. Certain uniform and financial obligations are required. The band may travel and attend special events.

   

  Wind Ensemble

  This ensemble is open to students through an audition. Students must demonstrate an above average desire to perform. Attendance at after-school rehearsals and sectionals are a requirement for enrollment in this course. Students are expected to obtain the highest quality instrument, mouthpiece, and/or mallets available. All students in this ensemble must prepare a grade 5 or higher solo from the F.B.A. list. Honors credit is available to junior and senior band members in this course. Certain uniform and financial obligations are required. The band may travel and attend special events.

   

  Concert Jazz Band I

  This ensemble is open to students through an audition. Attendance at after-school rehearsals and sectionals are a requirement for enrollment in this course. Students are expected to obtain the highest quality instrument, mouthpiece, and/or mallets available. Honors credit is available to junior and senior band members in this course. Certain financial obligations are required. All students must purchase a full tuxedo and alternate uniform. The band may travel and attend special events.

  Concert Jazz Band II

  This ensemble is open to students who meet minimum performance standards on a wind or percussion instrument. Students are expected to try and obtain the highest quality instrument, mouthpiece, and/or mallets available. . Certain financial obligations are required. All students must purchase a full tuxedo and alternate uniform. The band may travel and attend special events.

   Cougarettes

  This ensemble is open to students through an audition. Students will be provided with a workshop that teaches two routines, one dance, and one designed to demonstrate equipment proficiency. Certain uniform and financial obligations are required. The group may travel with or without the band and attend a variety of special events.

   

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And this?

A little later in life!

Our Fearless Leader!!!