About MTSD Bands

Middle School Band is a continuation of the MTSD band experience which begins in 4th Grade. For more information on our Elementary Bands, please click here.

The MTSD Middle School Bands meet during the BOCA (Band-Orchestra-Chorus-Academic Assistance) period at both Lake Shore and Steffen Middle Schools.  Students will build on the foundation that they have established in Fifth Grade and begin to rehearse music that will allow them to grow as an ensemble.  Balance, blend, intonation, and style are important aspects of development in the Sixth Grade year.

Students in Sixth Grade can participate in the WSMA Solo & Ensemble Festival where they will perform for critique only.  This is a wonderful opportunity for them to go through the process before they have the pressure of receiving a rating as they will in Seventh Grade and beyond. All Seventh and Eighth Grade students are encouraged to participate in the WSMA Solo & Ensemble Festival.  The Seventh & Eighth Grade band also performs at the WSMA Concert Festival where they have received consistent straight superior ratings.

The Middle School Bands present three evening concerts each year.  In addition, there are opportunities for students to participate in worthwhile field trips and audition for enrichment ensembles such as the UWM Honors Band Festival, MYSO’s Wind Ensemble and the UWM Youth Wind Ensembles.