MATADOR BAND

The Murchison Middle School Band Program consists of three 7^th and 8^th grade concert bands, one 7^th and 8^th grade jazz band as well as one 6^th grade band. Our students begin their instruments in the fall of their 6^th grade year. As they begin to learn how to play their instrument, they are also given rigorous instruction on music theory and ear training skills necessary to perform as a group. The first band concert for 6^th graders traditionally happens right after Thanksgiving. Students perform as one large ensemble and display their talents and skills to parents, relatives, and friends. By the time students reach the end of their 6^th grade year, they are prepared to play in a full band. We traditionally have the 6^th grade spring concert in May as a graduation to the next level of bands.

In the spring semester, all students participate in the annual band auditions to place students into one of the three 7^th and 8^th grade bands. Students are grouped based on ability, grades, and overall student achievement. Usually, most of our 6^th graders advance to one of the two Concert Bands. These groups are accelerated to the 8^th grade level of music. Some of our 6^th graders place in the top two performing ensembles – Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble. However, usually Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble are comprise mostly of auditioning 7^th graders.

Our Jazz Band is open to any 7^th and/or 8^th grader who would like to explore various types of music including jazz, rock, blues, and swing. This group traditionally meets in the spring semester and is a half year credit course.