Welcome

West Anchorage High School Bands

Welcome to the homepage for West Anchorage High School Jazz Band, Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, Pep Band, and International Baccalaureate Music classes. I'm so excited to be returning to West this fall!

Please get in touch at kauffman_kirby@asdk12.org with any questions. I'm looking forward to welcoming students back to in-person band.

Band FAQs (July 2021 update)

How can I check out a school instrument?

Email me at kauffman_kirby@asdk12.org with your name, contact info and instrument needed, and adult family member contact info. Instrument rental is $40/year and can be paid on Zangle/Q. Fee waivers available; my priority is that all students have what they need to participate in band.

When is Band offered at West?

  • Period 0 (6:30am) - Jazz Band (by audition)

  • Period 3 - International Baccalaureate Music

  • Period 4 - Symphonic Band (no audition)

  • Period 5 - Wind Ensemble (by audition)

How can I audition for Jazz Band or Wind Ensemble?

Email me at kauffman_kirby@asdk12.org and we'll set up a Zoom or in-person audition.

Help, I don't see band in my schedule!

Our counselors are rock stars! If you want band and don't see it on your schedule, let me know and we will get you into band.

How/when can I get my instrument?

TBD - Keep checking back on the website for updates; instrument pick up day before the start of school is in planning stages.

What about All-State?

All-State Band and Orchestra are auditioned honor ensembles consisting of students selected from all over Alaska and conducted by outstanding guest conductors. Find All-State audition materials here. If you have tried out before or not, I recommend checking out the new audition materials. This is a great opportunity! All-State Band and Orchestra are happening in-person this year.

  • September 6th: Audition uploads open. I'm available at lunch and after school to help students learn the audition music and make recordings.

  • September 20: Audition uploads close.

  • October 8: Audition results posted

  • October 11: Student music packets mailed

  • November 18-19: Rehearsals at Bartlett HS

  • November 20: final Rehearsals and Gala Concert at 6pm

What about All-Northwest?

All-Northwest Honor Ensembles take place in odd numbered years with the next Conference coming up in February 2023. Audition materials will be here by May 1, 2022