by Robann Brown.

With over 100 students in the freshman band, a division was made to maximize the learning experience between teacher and student. Instead of one band, there are now two, the symphonic band and the concert band.

The type of music played by each band ranges from one to six, one is what beginners play and the start of the 6th grade level, while six is at college level music.

The more advanced band plays higher-level music, which provides more of a challenge to the students. Students are able to move from one band to the other.

“I had three students who made All Region Band move from concert band, to the symphonic band this semester,” director Stewart Wright said.

Wright is able to now give more attention to the students who need help with the parts that they play. Also two bands reduce the amount of stress on Wright and allows more diverse music to be played between the bands.

“Teaching two band has been challenging, since I teach 128 students in just two periods, but I have been teaching long enough to know a lot of band literature,” Wright said.

All Region tryouts determine the symphonic band members chair placement and for concert band Wright hires people to listen to all the students play.

The students either have fifth period or sixth period in band. Each band is required to practice smart music that grades them each week. This program shows the students grade on the piece. Smart music holds each student responsible to know his or her part.

“Smart music is the only way I can listen to 128 students play their assignment since I am the only director,” Wright said.

The move for the freshmen from the two bands to the high school band occurs in April or the first of May. Each student auditions on scales, sight-reading and s short piece of music.

“Hopefully, all of my students will learn to play their instrument very well,” Wright said. “It is awesome to see them click.”