Homeschool Big Band (Grand Rapids)
These ensembles are patterned after the American Big Band tradition similar to the bands of the swing era, such as Glenn Miller, Count Basie and Duke Ellington. Instrumentation is based around 5 saxophones, 4 trombones, 4 trumpets and a rhythm section. The rhythm section consists of bass, piano, drums, and guitar. Instrumentation is somewhat flexible. Emphasis will be on learning the melody to several standard songs and learning to improvise stylistically around these melodies. Auditions are required to determine placement for Big Bands 1 and 2 and will be held the second week of class. See the Audition Information page for more information. Big Band 3 is open for any student with at least a year of experience on an instrument. No auditions are required. Big Band players must also be enrolled in a WMHFA band or orchestra.
Big Band 1 is our highest level group and attendance at Festivals is required. Email office@wmfha.org for more information.
These ensembles are patterned after the American Big Band tradition similar to the bands of the swing era, such as Glenn Miller, Count Basie and Duke Ellington. Instrumentation is based around 5 saxophones, 4 trombones, 4 trumpets and a rhythm section. The rhythm section consists of bass, piano, drums, and guitar. Instrumentation is somewhat flexible. Emphasis will be on learning the melody to several standard songs and learning to improvise stylistically around these melodies. Auditions are required to determine placement for Big Bands 1 and 2 and will be held the second week of class. See the Audition Information page for more information. Big Band 3 is open for any student with at least a year of experience on an instrument. No auditions are required. Big Band players must also be enrolled in a WMHFA band or orchestra.
Big Band 1 is our highest level group and attendance at Festivals is required. Email office@wmfha.org for more information.
