BHS Performing Ensembles

Barnstable High School is proud to offer students a wide variety of in-school and after-school ensembles.

Please find information regarding each ensemble below.

IN-SCHOOL ENSEMBLES:

String Orchestra
Modern Orchestra
Concert Band
Chorus
Contemporary Music Ensemble

AFTER-SCHOOL ENSEMBLES:

Marching & Pep Band
Jazz Band
Vocal Jazz
Color Guard & Dance Team
Drama Club
Show Choir

BHSPA Handbook 25-26

Director

Mr. Elijah Langille

String Orchestra

String Orchestra provides students with the opportunity to improve musicianship and string technique through the study of music theory, history, and the performance of various styles of music. Students must have experience in, or be willing to work hard to, learn proper string playing technique, collaborative ensemble playing, and music reading.

After-School/Evening Performances REQUIRED.

Modern Orchestra

Modern Orchestra is for all students regardless of prior musical experience. Students will explore a variety of musical styles utilizing the violin, viola, cello, and bass. Activities will include small group instruction, student-led discussion, listening analysis, performance through cultural lenses (i.e., improvisation, rhythmic nuance, stylistic implementation), and large ensemble performance and reflection.

There is no after school commitment and students may take this course more than once for credit.

Director

Mr. Elijah Langille

Co-Directors

Mr. Ian Maguire &

Mrs. Meaghan O'Connor-Vince

Concert Band

Concert Band offers students the opportunity to enhance their musicianship and develop individual technique through the exploration of music theory, music history, and the performance of diverse musical styles. Students will engage in regular rehearsals and performances, focusing on both ensemble playing and personal growth as musicians.

Prior experience on a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument is encouraged, but students with a strong commitment to learning and improving on an instrument are also welcome to join. This course is designed for students ready to challenge themselves in a collaborative, performance-driven environment.

After-School/Evening Performances REQUIRED.

Chorus

Chorus is a vocal performing ensemble designed to cultivate students' musical skills and artistic expression through the study and performance of a diverse repertoire in a choral setting. The course provides students the opportunity to enhance their musicianship and vocal technique through the study of music theory, music history, and the performance of diverse musical styles.

Students will participate in regular rehearsals and performances, focusing on both ensemble singing and individual vocal development. While prior singing experience is recommended, students who are willing to work hard to learn proper vocal technique are welcome. Additionally, they will have the opportunity to perform in various school and community events, showcasing their talents and making meaningful contributions to the cultural life of the school and local community. Students can take this course repeatedly for credit.

After-School/Evening Performances REQUIRED.

Director

Mrs. Mary Barth

Contemporary Music Ensemble

Prerequisite: Students must have successfully completed 1 full credit of any BHS music class or have permission from the BHS Performing Arts Department Head.

Contemporary Ensemble gives students the opportunity to explore contemporary music through instruments such as guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, and vocals. Students will study and perform a wide range of popular music styles, including rock, pop, hip-hop, and more, while developing their musicianship, creativity, and technique. Emphasis is placed on collaborative music-making, songwriting, and improvisation, allowing students to express themselves and engage with the music that resonates with them.

Whether you’re an experienced musician or only be playing an instrument for a short time, Contemporary Ensemble is open to all students who are eager to work hard, be creative, and perform in a dynamic group setting.

After-School/Evening Performances REQUIRED.

Director

Mr. Ian Maguire

Director

Mr. Ian Maguire

Asst. Director

Ms. Morgan Grey

Percussion Director

Ms. Sarah Fernandes

Marching & Pep Band

Student run Instagram: @bhs.pepband

Marching & Pep Band is an after school performing ensemble open to students at any grade level. Students must have experience in or be willing to work hard to learn a woodwind, brass or percussion instrument. It is highly recommended that students be enrolled in an in-school performing ensemble in order to acquire the necessary skills in reading and performing music. Performances consist of playing at home sports games and for town community and holiday events.

After-School Program (Full-Year, Seasonal).

Jazz Band

Requirement: Audition-Only.

Jazz Band is an after school performing ensemble open to students at any grade level that focuses on playing Jazz, Funk, Rock, and various other tunes in an ensemble setting.

It is highly recommended that students be enrolled in an in-school performing ensemble in order to acquire the necessary skills in reading and performing music.

After School Program (November-June). All Performances REQUIRED.

Co-Directors

Mr. Ian Maguire &

Mrs. Meaghan O'Connor-Vince

Director

Mrs. Mary Barth

Vocal Jazz

Requirement: Audition-Only.

Vocal Jazz is an after school performing ensemble open to students at any grade level that explores and performs Jazz music in an vocal ensemble setting.

It is highly recommended that students be enrolled in an in-school performing ensemble in order to acquire the necessary skills in reading and performing music.

After School Program (November-June). All Performances REQUIRED.

Color Guard & Dance Team

Color Guard & Dance Team is an after-school group that offers students the opportunity to explore the dynamic world of color guard and dance performance. This program is designed to provide a platform for students to develop technical skills, artistic expression, and collaborative teamwork.

Under the guidance of skilled instructors participants will learn the fundamentals of color guard techniques, including the manipulation of flags and sabres, and delve into the art of dance by practicing a variety of styles and choreographic elements.

This extracurricular activity is open to all Barnstable High School students, regardless of their prior experience in color guard or dance.