About our program

About Our Program

The Shenendehowa Band Program enjoys a rich tradition of excellence dating back for many years. The bands at Shenendehowa have been highly successful at numerous state-wide and regional music festivals including NYSSMA Majors, Music in the Parks, and Festivals of Music. Annually, students are selected to represent the Shenendehowa Band program in a variety of county and state-wide festivals including: Conference All-State, Area All-State, All-County, New York State Band Directors Association Honors Band, Suburban Council, Saratoga Springs Youth Orchestra and the Empire State Youth Orchestra organizations. Most importantly, the Shenendehowa band program continues to pride itself on offering thousands of students the opportunity to perform and appreciate music though their experience in our band program.

Fifth grade

Band begins in grade 5 with weekly lessons in a small group setting. Their first band experience is in January with a weekly rehearsal in addition to their regularly scheduled lessons. The band performs once in the spring. Click here for more info!

Sixth - eighth grade

Students may participate in band which rehearses every other day during the school day. All ensembles perform at least twice a year and students are also given opportunities to perform in smaller ensembles at events such as Koda Cafe, Accent on Acadia, Spotlight on Gowana, and Moving-up day ceremony.

Extra-curricular
In addition to the school ensembles, smaller, often select ensembles work with teachers before school. Students in grades 7-8 have the option of auditioning for jazz band. Students participating in jazz band must also remain members of their school concert band.

Ninth- Twelfth grade

High School graduation requirement
In the high school, students must have 1 unit of credit in music or art to graduate. To meet this, they may participate in a performing ensemble or enroll in Music Theory. All bands, including jazz band & jazz ensemble meet during the school day.

Ninth grade—HS West
Students who successfully complete grade 8 band will be recommended for continuation in grade 9 bands at HS West. These ensembles meet daily and receive 1 credit. Students will also have the opportunity to audition for jazz band which meets every other day during the school day and students receive .5 unit of credit.

Tenth through Twelfth grade—HS East

Concert Band—Grade 10 Students

Symphonic Band—Grade 11/12 Students

Wind Ensemble—Select performing ensemble by audition and teacher recommendation.

Jazz Band—Grade 10-12 Students

Jazz Ensemble—Select performing ensemble by audition and teacher recommendation.

Music sequence
Students may also receive a sequence in music by receiving credit for both Music Theory I and AP Music Theory. Students must also be members of a school performing ensemble during all four years.