Started in 2014, the GBHS Band implemented a new member point system. Being actively involved in the music department takes a great deal of time and dedication. This new point system was designed to encourage students to be actively involved in the program, and to reward students that dedicate their time and energy into being an excellent band member. Members earn and accumulate points throughout their 4 years at GBHS and will work their way up the latter. Members earn pins for their letter jacket, as well as other rewards throughout the school year.

Since 1984, the band program has given out awards to its students that are in the Marching Band/Color Guard, Jazz Band, and Day Band Ensemble groups. Below is a link to view a digital compilation that is the complete history of the names contained on the plaques found in the band room.

Just as participants in any other specialized activity move to better equipment to improve their performance, musicians are constantly striving to find mouthpieces, reeds, and instruments which enable them to progress toward their full potential. For many students, the first two years of high school are a time to consider investing in a better quality instrument. Models that students used in 6th grade are appropriate for beginners, but these instruments pose limitations for musical growth and improved technique. It is a fact that students are unable to perform any better than the quality of the equipment they use. Race car drivers do not drive Chevettes, marathon runners do not race in Keds......top-notch musicians do not play the instrument that they rented "way-back-when." The more advanced models of instruments do cost more, of course, but it is a worth-while investment. If the price of a professional level instrument is too costly, at least invest a few dollars in a better mouthpiece and/or reed. What "came in the box" in sixth grade is simply too generic now.

Once school begins students are given a “Chair Placement Test” to determine seating. Chair placement will determine what music part they will play. (1st tpt, 2nd tpt., etc.) Many times the 1st part will be more challenging than the 3rd part. This DOES NOT mean that the 1st part is more important than the 3rd part. All parts need to be performed equally and are necessary for a piece of music to sound correctly. A “Chair Placement Test” is given to determine which part is best suited for each student. If a student is unhappy with the chair they are given, they are encouraged to challenge other students.

Once chair placements have been made, students are allowed and encouraged to challenge. Students are only allowed to challenge up two chairs at a time. A student must fill out a challenge form and turn it in to the director to indicate his/her intentions. The director will then instruct both students what music the challenge will be on and when the challenge will take place. Most challenges will occur one week after the challenge form has been submitted.

Thank you for your interest in auditioning for the Grand Blanc High School Wind Ensemble. Wind Ensemble auditions will be based on a number of factors. Demonstrating proper work ethic on a daily basis, responsibility, number of years of private instruction, solo and ensemble participation, and number of ensembles performing in are all examples of areas that are considered for membership acceptance.

An audition is also required. Below is a list of things to expect in the audition.

1. Audition music will be selected by the student. You will need to demonstrate various musical styles. Try to demonstrate your strengths. You can perform anything you like. It can be a solo that you have been working on, or something we have been working on in class.

2. All players must play the "Wind Ensemble Audition Etude(s)". You can download the etude by clicking on the WIND ENSMBLE AUDITION MATERIAL like, located on this page.

3. Percussion students must demonstrate their ability on snare drum, timpani and keyboard. Because you have three instruments to demonstrate, percussionist DO NOT have to play a solo. You do however need to play the provided etude for snare drum, keyboard and timpani.

4. All auditions will take place online, with a video recording.