The Park Hill High School Symphonic Band, conducted by Mr. Meigel, is the most highly-selective performing ensemble in the PHHS Band program.
Students who are selected to perform in this group are very dedicated and have reached a high level of achievement through individual work and/or private study. Many members of this ensemble become members of the Kansas City All-District Band and the Missouri All-State Band. Most members of Symphonic Band are involved in solo and/or small ensemble work in preparation for District and State Music Festival in the spring.
The Symphonic Band has received consistent “I” ratings at State Music Festival, and has been invited to perform at local, state, regional, national and international festivals and clinics. Most Recently, The Symphonic Band performed at the Kaufman Center for the Performing Arts in February of 2018.
The Concert Band at PHHS, conducted by Mr. Potter, is an intermediate-level ensemble designed to build upon developing musical and technical skills in an effort to foster continued musical growth in each student.
The Concert Band performs at State Music Festival. Members of the Concert Band are eligible and encouraged to audition for the All-District and All-State Bands. Members are also encouraged to participate in solo/small ensemble preparation for the District and State Music Festivals held each spring. Participation in all performances by all members of the ensemble is required.
The Trojan Marching Band, directed by Mr. Meigel, Mr. Potter, Ms. Stapfer, and Dr. Hewitt, is comprised of all students in Symphonic Band and Concert Band and members of the Color Guard. This ensemble represents Park Hill High School not only at home football games, but also in local parades and a variety of regional festivals. The esprit de corps generated and school spirit promoted by this band makes it a favorite of outdoor crowds throughout the community. Emphasis is on combining the discipline necessary to excel musically with the physical discipline required to create visual excitement.
The Winter/Color Guard is an integral part of the visual/aesthetic performance of the marching band. Members are selected through audition each spring. The Color Guard Coach is Chelsea Mogg.
The Park Hill Jazz Band is under the direction of Mr. Meigel and Mr. Potter. Jazz Band meets during the school day. Through the years, the jazz program at Park Hill has enjoyed an outstanding reputation.
Emphasis in the jazz curriculum focuses on two areas: ensemble performance and solo improvisation. While a student might not feel comfortable improvising, the knowledge with which to do so will be taught as a part of the course. Improvisation will be encouraged, but not required.
Membership in one of the PHHS concert bands is critical for all wind players and percussionists in the Jazz Band. Students in the Jazz Band are eligible for and encouraged to audition for the All-District and All-State Jazz Bands.
Campus Band, conducted by Ms. Stapfer, is the entry-level band in the PHHS band program. The focus of instruction in this ensemble is on continued tonal and technical development, ensemble skills and performance.
The Campus Band may perform at State Music Festival. The band also performs three concerts throughout the school year, as well as marches in the Homecoming Parade and possibly the pre-game at a home football game. Students are eligible to audition for the All-District Band. Participation in a solo/small ensemble for District and State Music Festival is encouraged, provided the student can meet the appropriate technical/musical demands and make a necessary commitment of practice time. Participation in all performances by all members of the ensemble is required.