Symphonic Band is a semester-long band class that meets during the school day. Students will be either enrolled in Symphonic III or Symphonic Band IV and will receive Honors Credit. Students enrolled in Symphonic Band will be expected to work on music/ensemble fundamentals in order to perform upper level symphonic band literature (Generally Grade V and/or VI) through developing a mastery of scales, range, complex rhythms, sight reading skills, and expand an understanding of and ability to execute aspects of ensemble performance such as balance, blend, intonation, phrasing, and musical effect.
Students enrolled in Symphonic Band will have the opportunity to audition for Union County, South Central District and North Carolina honor band clinics, perform at the annual Music Performance Adjudication, play in small ensembles and prepare for annual concert events.
Any student who was registered for middle school band in 8th grade is eligible to register for symphonic band at CATA. Students who have not been enrolled in a band class in a year or more may be asked to play a placement audition with the band director before being scheduled for Symphonic Band with your counselor.
Students not able to fit band into their schedule or want more flexibility in their schedules are encouraged to enroll in "Zero Block"
Marching and jazz band are not requirements to participate in Symphonic Band and vice versa. Those are extracurricular ensembles.
If you wish to register for Symphonic Band, please email band director Craig Retzlaff and speak with your counselor.