Have you ever wondered what the differences between middle school and high school band programs are? When middle school band members go to high school, there are many differences and factors to be surprised about. 

Compared to middle school band, marching band is a new and important part of high school band. Students enrolled in Concert Band or Symphonic Band are required to participate in the school’s marching band. The marching band performs at the Newsday Festival, the Memorial Day Parade, and a few football games. Newsday is a festival hosted at the Mitchel Field Athletic Complex, which is near Hofstra University. Students enrolled in the marching band participate in this festival and play a selection of songs while marching. A lot of work goes into rehearsing and playing for marching band. Practicing music on your own is extremely recommended. 

However, there are also ways high school and middle school bands are similar. Once marching band season is over, high school band students will participate in either concert band or symphonic band, similar to middle school. Additionally, students will rehearse in-school for the winter and spring concerts. Jazz Band is also offered to both middle school and high school students, however, auditions for the high school jazz band are required. Finally, students are given lesson schedules and should attend the assigned period for their lesson group, regardless of their grade.

Despite there being a few differences between both bands, band is a great way to socialize and meet new people.  Being part of any school band program is a great way to practice learning, personal growth  and exercise.