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The Blue and Black Brigade Band and Colorguard
The Blue and Black Brigade Band and Colorguard
The West Hills High School "Blue and Black Brigade" is an up-and-coming ensemble located in sunny Santee, California. What we currently lack in size, we more than make up for in dedication, skill, grit, and positivity! We know that through working together as a team, we can achieve our goals.
The Blue and Black Brigade is one of the smallest bands in the Grossmont Union High School District. With only 23 performers, we have competed against groups twice our size. Despite this, we consistently placed in the top ten for the entire season.
We openly accept students with prior band experience each year. The Colorguard is open to any student, regardless of their experience level. Students must be in either the Symphonic Band, Percussion Ensemble, or Colorguard class to participate.
Annual Ensemble Timeline Overview
Annual Ensemble Timeline Overview
We begin each school year as the Blue and Black Brigade Marching Band and Colorguard. We spend our time rehearsing for our field show competitions, pep and halftime performances at our football games, and other school or community performances.
We quickly become a Concert Band for our holiday concert and then continue as a Concert Band Ensemble for the remainder of the spring semester.
Students also have the opportunity to participate in Percussion Ensemble in the spring semester. There is no prior percussion experience required.
Colorguard becomes Winterguard, and is independent from the band in the spring semester. See the "Winterguard" tab for more information.
Instructional Staff
Instructional Staff
Catarina Fernandez
Catarina Fernandez
Director, Teacher
Catarina Fernandez is a dedicated band director with over 10 years of music teaching experience, inspiring students through music education at West Hills High School. With a degree in Music from San Diego State University and a Master's in Education, she emphasizes musical excellence and creativity in all of her classes and ensembles.
In her role as the Band and Choir Director at West Hills High School, Ms. Fernandez oversees the entire band, guard, and choir programs, including but not limited to concert band, marching band, and jazz band. She prioritizes a student-centered approach, emphasizing collaboration, inclusivity, and continuous growth.
Outside of teaching, Ms. Fernandez enjoys reading, cozy gaming, collecting records, CDs, and tapes, and cross-stitching.
Zachary Fishman
Zachary Fishman
Brass Performance Expert, Drill Writer, Composer/Arranger
Darby Gastelum
Darby Gastelum
Color Guard Coach
Megan Hardy
Megan Hardy
Color Guard Coach
Bobby Starboard
Bobby Starboard
Drumline & Pit Coach
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