For more information, download the All-District Auditions Letter.
ECDBA HS 9-10 Solo List 2022-2023 Winds
if there are multiple endings, A endings only
ECDBA HS 9-10 Solo List 2022-2023 Percussion
See Mr. Still for music
SNARE - Portraits in Rhythm, Cirone, p. 20, #18 AND All-Inclusive Etudes, Willie & Hill, Row-Loff Productions
Junior High Auditions Etude, Set 2 - mm. 29-53
MALLETS - Audition Etudes, Whaley, p. 21, #5
TIMPANI - Tymp Tunes, Schinstine, p. 4, "Copper Bowls"
ECDBA HS 11-12 Solo List 2022-2023
if there are multiple endings, A endings only
Tri-M Music Honor Society for middle and high school musicians is sponsored by the National Association for Music Education (NAfME), the organization that all music educators must belong to for their students to participate in state, regional, and national band activities. This society is open to all band and choral students beginning at the end of their sophomore year and serves as a service group for our high school music programs.
Recitals, planning masterclasses, hosting visiting performers and lecturers, and special projects for the betterment of music at Willow Spring are the major focuses of this student-led organization. The Band and Chorus Directors are the faculty sponsors for Willow Spring’s Tri-M chapter. Scholarships and other benefits are available through the national Tri-M organization.
Students must maintain an overall GPA of 3.5 and an “A” average in music classes to remain a member of Tri-M, as well as be enrolled in a music class each year while at Willow Spring. Dues for Tri-M are set annually (typically $15).
Private lessons are a great way to invest in your development as a musician and grow as a student performer! There are many private lesson instructors throughout the Triangle to choose from, and most offer different levels of instruction. Students and parents are highly encouraged to consider private lessons, especially for students who want to participate in honor bands, summer camps, and other enrichment activities. Click on the button below to access a database of area instructors. Mr. Still does not endorse any particular person, and this list is not exhaustive.
There are many honor band festivals throughout the Carolinas and the Southeastern United States. Some require an audition, while others are based on director recommendation. WSHS encourages many students to participate in these fun-filled weekends each year. Students who have the drive to explore music with a deeper commitment are encouraged to seek out these honor band experiences. See Mr. Still for more information.
Congratulations to GIa A., Matthew M., Leif P., and Daniel B. on earning a spot to represent Willow Spring High School in the 2025 All-District Band.
Many students choose to participate in small ensembles during their free time. Rehearsal space and some music will be provided, and assistance from the band director and staff will be available when possible. This is a great opportunity for students to experience musical growth independently and with their peers. The East Central District Solo and Ensemble Festival is held in the spring. Fees for these activities are kept to a minimum and may be set by the state organization.
One of the best ways to get the most out of band (and making music) is to invest in a high-quality instrument. The saying goes, "you get what you pay for..." and instruments definitely follow this adage. Instruments are typically grouped into three categories: beginning models, intermediate models, and professional models. The differences range from the quality of construction materials and level of craftsmanship to the type of materials used and the country of origin. These factors can significantly affect the overall sound, performance, and characteristics of individual instruments.
Another major factor when it comes to instrument quality is serviceability. Better quality instruments are typically easier to repair and maintain, with readily available replacement parts. In contrast, cheaper instruments are often difficult to repair and can cause frustration with their playability and performance. High-quality instruments generally retain their value better and can last a student well beyond their high school years if cared for properly. It is not uncommon for a current high schooler to play an instrument that was used by their parent or grandparent, demonstrating the lasting value of well-maintained, high-quality instruments.
Different manufacturers offer various instruments at specific price points, so finding an instrument that fits a student's needs and budget is very doable. Word of encouragement: always play an instrument (i.e., test drive it) before buying, and it never hurts to talk to Mr. Still, another band director, or your private lesson instructor to get their input before making a decision. They are happy to help!
A clean and well-working instrument can really make a difference! Keeping your equipment in great shape helps students fall in love with music more because they can focus on what really matters... making music! See the link below for specific instrument cleaning instructions.
PLEASE NOTE: This document does not replace a professional! If your instrument needs professional repair or servicing, make that the priority. Never try to repair your instrument if you don't know what you're doing... you may actually create an even more expensive repair bill for yourself!
ALWAYS be on time – which really means 10–15 minutes early.
When in doubt, stop talking and listen.
Show respect to everyone and listen to what the “veterans” have to say. They’re probably right.
Don’t expect to know everything on the first day. Even people who have marched before still have things to learn.
Take things seriously, but not TOO seriously. In the end, as Mr. Still would say, “It’s just band.”
We are very good at what we do because we can focus when needed.
Stay well-rested, well-fed, and hydrated.
Always have all your materials with you or close enough that you can get them quickly.
Know how to work, but also know how to relax. Understand that the two NEVER occur at the same time… EVER.
Keep up with your schoolwork. Take every opportunity to do your homework – on the bus, during extra time in class, at appointments – whatever it takes. Be as productive as possible so you can enjoy other things
You will be called out eventually. Don’t be afraid. When it happens, just speak up and don’t worry about being wrong.
Always trust the instructors – especially when you think they aren’t right. They are rarely wrong.
You may want to quit. But DON’T!