EXTRA-CURRICULAR GROUPS

Marching Band

The Willow Spring Sound of the Storm Marching Band 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 money. 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.

Jazz Band

The Willow Spring Jazz Band is a traditional big band, consisting of saxophones, trumpets, trombones, and a rhythm section. The bands perform 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 prior to the event. Membership to this group is generally granted by audition, depending on student interest.

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, safe environment. This group allows students who play non-traditional jazz instruments to learn a new instrument so they can audition for the Jazz Band if they choose. Typically, clarinets learn saxophone, horn players learn trumpet, and euphonium/tuba players learn trombone. This group meets once a week in 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 WISP, 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.

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Winterguard

The Willow Spring Winterguard 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 Winterguard 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, both during the fall marching season and during Winterguard.

The Winterguard 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 Willow Spring Pit Orchestra provides live musical accompaniment for the school's spring musical. Comprised of student musicians and adults alike, the pit orchestra works closely with the cast and directors to bring the production to life, enhancing the storytelling with live music. The orchestra's rehearsals begin several weeks before the show to ensure the music complements the actors' timing and actions.