Band - What to Know

Garfield has a long history of high-quality music education. Parker Cook (Band Director 1928 -1971) taught a young and energized Quincy Jones, class of 1950. Clarence Acox (1971 – 2019) brought southern HBCU style to Garfield with the Marching 100’s and built the Jazz program to become internationally recognized for excellence. Today, Garfield continues to offer high-caliber ensemble experiences for musicians of all abilities and backgrounds with 150+ students involved each year.

What bands are there at Garfield?

Concert Band – This is the required entry point for all 9th grade wind and percussion students. It is open to all students and abilities in 9th – 12th grades. Participation in athletic band is required and expected of all students in this ensemble
.Symphonic Band – This ensemble is auditioned for 10th – 12th grade wind and percussion students. This class engages in challenging wind band works that push the boundaries of musicianship and create challenges that promote rapid musical growth. There are higher expectations around practice habits and engagement in this ensemble. Participation in athletic band is optional.
Symphonic Winds / Symphony Orchestra – This is a select group of wind players from the Symphonic Band who perform with the strings in the Symphony Orchestra for orchestral pieces that include wind parts.
Athletic Band – Though Garfield does not currently have a marching band, this energetic pep band performs in the stands at athletic events (mainly football and basketball), assemblies, and other school events along with the drum line. The group performs a mix of pop, hip-hop, fight songs, and traditional Garfield songs, and has a lot of fun together in the stands. 9th graders and Concert Band members are required to participate, and members of other bands have the option to sign up and participate as well. Athletic Band is a great way to support the greater Garfield community and to give back to our school.
Jazz Ensembles – We have three jazz bands at Garfield. Two of them meet in the morning as clubs (not-for-credit classes). The third, Jazz Ensemble 1 is an advanced ability chamber ensemble that is auditioned. Jazz Ensembles are auditioned 9th – 12th grade and they are managed through the support of Garfield Jazz Foundation, independently of FOGM.

Where and where are the concerts?

We perform in a variety of different types of events all year. There are regular seasonal band concerts in the Quincy Jones Performing Arts Center, athletic band performances, and some off-site festivals and performances. The best way to stay connected is to check our event calendar, which is updated regularly.

What is the concert dress attire?

For traditional “sit down” concerts — black dress pants or black skirt/dress, black dress shirt or blouse, black dress shoes and long black socks. Students may wear a purple tie, bow tie, scarf, or other appropriate flare (no sunglasses or hats). You can get all of these items for very cheap at Goodwill or other thrifting shops. Students participating in athletic band will also receive a uniform that is for performing at assemblies and games.

When are auditions?

Auditions are held every Spring at the end of May to determine ensemble placements for the following school year. Materials are available sometime after Spring Break. Participation in Concert Band does not require an audition.

Where can I get an instrument if I don’t have one or would like to get my own?

We do have instruments for any student who needs one, but some prefer to purchase or rent a personal instrument at some point in high school. There are many rental and purchase options. If renting, there are shops like Kennelly Keys, Ted Brown Music, and Music and Arts. If you’re looking for recommendations for instruments to buy, you should check in with Mr. Sessink individually by email.