Philosophy of Instrumental Music Education
The Inver Grove Heights Community School's Band Program provides over 500 students with a meaningful, challenging, enjoyable, and rewarding musical experience of the highest quality. Our musicians accomplish this through musical and personal growth, dedication, exploration of music from around the world, student leadership, loyalty, and service learning. We represent our schools and our community as ambassadors of excellence, pride, and respect. Opportunities for instrumental education begin in fifth grade at all three of the elementary schools - Hilltop, Salem Hills, and Pine Bend Elementary Schools. After fifth grade, students are grouped into classes by instrument type for their middle school years; woodwinds, brass and percussion.
Simley High School Curricular Band Courses
For the school year of 2022-23, the school-day band program is split into four different courses - Symphonic Band, Percussion, Jazz Ensemble, and Wind Ensemble. We currenly have just over 120 student participating in band ensembles. These courses are full year commitments in participation. Lessons are also provided during the school day for all students.
Simley High School Band Performance Accolades
Since the late 1990's the Simley bands and marching band have performed all around the world. From Europe to Orlando, the bands have had a performance tour yearly since 2002. The Simley High School Wind Ensemble is in its 26th straight year of "Superior" ratings at MSHSL Large Group Contest. Guests artists have included Dean Sorensen, Gordy Knutson, United States Marine Band, Mat Campbell, Randall D. Standridge, and many more.