Band

7120: Concert Band

Grades: 9, Credits: 10, UC/USC Requirement: f

Concert Band is our pre-audition course for all 9th-grade wind and percussion students. This class builds upon foundational skills from middle school band and serves as the entry point into the Monta Vista Band Program.

Students are expected to enter with basic music literacy and prior experience on their instrument, including a characteristic tone, the ability to read standard notation, and familiarity with the C, F, and B♭ major scales. Concert Band focuses on strengthening fundamental technique, ensemble awareness, and musicianship while preparing students for continued growth in the band program.

Recommended: Participation in Middle School Band or private lessons.

7130: Symphonic Band

Grades: 9-12, Credits: 10, UC/USC Requirement: f

Symphonic Band is the intermediate band ensemble at Monta Vista High School and is open to students in grades 10-12. Highly prepared 9th-grade students may apply by audition. This ensemble builds upon the skills developed in Concert Band, with an increased emphasis on musical independence, ensemble precision, and expressive performance.

Students perform concert band literature typically ranging from Grades 3-4 and are expected to demonstrate strong music literacy, consistent practice habits, and technical fluency, including familiarity with all 12 major scales.

Recommended: Participation in Concert Band (7120).

7140: Wind Ensemble

Grades: 9-12, Credits: 10, UC/USC Requirement: f

Wind Ensemble is the advanced band ensemble at Monta Vista High School and is open to students in grades 9-12 by audition only. This ensemble represents the highest level of instrumental study within the band program and emphasizes musical independence, technical mastery, and professional-level ensemble skills.

Students perform college-level wind ensemble repertoire and are expected to demonstrate advanced music literacy, consistent and self-directed practice habits, and a high degree of technical and musical fluency. Wind Ensemble students are held to the highest standards of preparation, accountability, and artistic excellence.

Recommended: Private lessons.