CURRICULAR GROUPS
Curricular Groups meet during the school day for one block and earn academic credit. These groups are considered the core of the program, providing students with the opportunity to master their instruments and musical concepts. Participation in a Curricular Group is a prerequisite for joining other ensembles.
Students are expected to be enrolled for the entire year. Some bands require director approval or an audition.
Read below to learn more about each of our Curricular Groups.
Wind Ensemble
The Wind Ensemble is the top band class at Willow Spring and is new for the 2024-2025 school year.
More to come soon ...
Symphonic Band
The Symphonic Band is the upper-level band class at Willow Spring. This ensemble comprises sophomores through seniors who have demonstrated mastery of their instruments in Concert Band. Membership is granted by director approval only. The Symphonic Band performs grade 5 and 6 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 of any additional performance will be given.
Students are required to attend all outside-of-class performances and rehearsals. If a scheduled event is missed without a valid excuse, a "0" will be given as a test grade (the director will determine if the excuse is valid). The Symphonic Band is an honors-level course. 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, performing Grade 3 and 4 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 Symphonic Band and the Marching Band. Additionally, upperclassmen may take this class if they wish to learn a new instrument. Concert Band is non-honors. Students are expected to be enrolled for both semesters.
Percussion Ensemble
The Percussion Ensemble meets in the fall semester to coincide with the Marching Band. This band class focuses on all things percussion and performs separately from the concert band classes, while also providing the percussion personnel for each band. Students who audition and earn a spot on the drumline in the Marching Band are required to take this course. All percussion students are expected to be enrolled in a concert band class in the spring semester. The Band Director will place students in the appropriate leveled course. The Percussion Ensemble is a combined standard/honors level course, with students completing additional assignments outside of class to earn honors credit.