Band
Kennedy High School’s band program includes three concert bands, two jazz bands, and a marching band.
Incoming freshman have a few scheduling options:
- Marching band/color guard or fall concert band (freshmen only) -first semester
- Wind symphony, symphonic band, or concert band -second semester
- Jazz band (optional)
Most incoming ninth graders choose marching band; however, if you feel you are behind on your instrument and/or music reading, concert band is the place for you.
For the second semester you will be placed in one of the three concert bands: wind symphony, symphonic band, or concert band, which is based on chair placement auditions after the marching season ends. When you register for classes, it does not matter which second semester band option you select—just make sure you have one of them on your schedule. We will make sure the counselors schedule you into the correct class before second semester begins.
Band is a full-year course: you must have band in your schedule for both semesters.
Band Calendar
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Ensembles
Concert Band
The concert band focuses on the basics of instrumental performance through ensemble experiences and individual lessons. This group participates in three concerts throughout the year. Students in this group also participate in small ensembles during the early spring months.
Marching Band
The marching band performs at all home football games, and competitions and invitationals throughout the state. The marching band is made up of students from all grade levels. Students focus on instrumental techniques, tone production, music reading skills, and body movement.
Symphonic Band
The symphonic band focuses on basic instrumental techniques, tone production, music reading skills, and balance/blend. Students in this ensemble will have weekly individual lessons. This group participates in three concerts throughout the year as well as the Iowa High School Music Association’s state large group festival in early May. Students in this group also participate in small ensembles during the early spring months.
Jazz One
Jazz one is Kennedy’s auditioned jazz band. It has a set instrumentation that includes trumpets, trombones, saxophones, drum set, bass, guitar, piano, and vibes. Auditions for this group typically take place in September with rehearsals beginning in the fall and running through the end of the school year.
This group competes in three jazz festivals in the winter and performs three to four concerts a year. They also participate in KCCK’s Corridor Jazz Project annually.
Rehearsals for this group take place outside of the school day, but students receive class credit for their participation.
Wind Symphony
The wind symphony performs advanced level literature from a variety of styles and genres of instrumental music. Members are expected to exhibit strong instrumental techniques, ensemble, and performance skills. This group participates in three concerts throughout the year as well as the Iowa High School Music Association’s state large group festival in early May. Students in this group also participate in small ensembles during the early spring months.
Jazz Two
This group competes in three jazz festivals in the winter and performs three concerts a year. Rehearsals for this ensemble take place outside of the school day, but students receive class credit for their participation.
There is no audition for jazz two. Anyone who participates in the band program is eligible to sign up.