Band and Ensemble Opportunities
The University High School Band meets daily during seventh period
at 1:00 p.m. Band members play a variety of musical styles, learning
musical expression through instrumental performance. Band class consists
of Marching Band and Concert Band. Many extracurricular band activities
are available to the students.
Marching Band
Marching Band rehearsals begin in the summer. When school begins
in the fall, rehearsals will be held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings
throughout the marching season. The band performs at home varsity
football games and competes in several local marching band competitions
during the fall. Every other year, the band travels to perform in
a bowl game during Winter Break. The next trip will be in 2008.
Uniforms: Marching Pioneers have two uniforms. The summer uniform
consists of a green U-High Marching Pioneer polo shirt (provided),
white shorts, white socks and white shoes. The full uniform consists
of the dress uniform (provided), black gloves, black socks and
black Drillmaster marching shoes. Marching shoes and gloves may
be purchased at the Music Shoppe in Normal.
Concert Band
Concert Band begins second quarter and continues through the school
year. There are three concerts: the Holiday Music Concert including
chorus and orchestra groups in December, a Winter Concert including
chorus and orchestra groups in February and a Spring Band Concert
that includes senior awards and recognition in May.
Jazz Band
There are two U-High jazz bands, Jazz Gold and Jazz Green. Selections
for these bands are made by audition. Practices begin after Marching
Band season and run through the spring. The jazz bands perform
at concerts, competitions and other local gigs.
Madrigal Brass
Madrigal Brass is a voluntary ensemble that performs during the
Madrigal Dinner which is held around Thanksgiving.
Pep Band
Pep Band, a voluntary group, performs at home varsity basketball
games throughout the basketball season.
Pit Orchestra
Pit Orchestra provides accompaniment for the Spring musical. Participation
is voluntary. Members of the Pit must be present during Tech
Week (the week before the performance) and performances.
Individual solo and ensemble contests and band festivals
Students may audition for the IMEA district band and jazz band
festivals in the fall. Auditions are held on Columbus Day and
the festivals are held in November. In the Spring, band members
may compete in IHSA solo and ensemble contest. |
