As we approach the time for students to select their schedules for the upcoming school year, we wanted to send out a reminder to ensure students are choosing their classes with these requirements in mind.
Good morning instrumental music students and families,
We are excited to share some important updates about our music program for the 2025-2026 school year. These changes are designed to strengthen our programs, support student retention, and provide a more comprehensive music education experience for all involved.
1. Freshmen Enrollment in Marching Band
Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, all incoming freshmen in the band will be required to enroll in Marching Band. Please note that this change will only affect students entering high school in the future—current high school students will not be impacted.
The goal of this change is to introduce freshmen to a vibrant and engaging activity they may not have considered otherwise. Marching Band offers a great opportunity for students to connect with a large, supportive group, making it easier to transition into high school. We have already begun discussing this new requirement with current 8th graders who will be entering high school next year.
Additionally, the requirement that all Marching Band and Color Guard members must enroll in a music class will continue next year as well.
2. Jazz Band Enrollment Requirements
To ensure a well-rounded music experience, students enrolled in Jazz Band will now be required to take one of the following: Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, or Concert Band.
- Students who audition for and are accepted into Jazz A will also need to audition for Wind Ensemble.
- Students enrolled in Jazz B will need to be enrolled in one of the three concert ensembles listed above.
3. Four-Year Cords for Music Achievement
We are also adjusting the four-year cords for students who demonstrate long-term commitment to the program. Starting this year, students will be eligible for the following cords:
- Multi-Colored Cord: Awarded for 4 years of participation in Marching Band and Color Guard.
- Blue Cord: Awarded for 4 years in two different music ensembles (e.g., Jazz Band and a Concert Ensemble).
- Yellow Cord: Awarded for 4 years in the same ensemble area (e.g., Concert Band, Jazz Band, Orchestra). For example, 1 year of Concert Band, 1 year of Symphonic Band, and 2 years in Wind Ensemble.
We understand that these changes may impact your class schedule planning, and we want to ensure you have plenty of time to make thoughtful decisions about your courses. Research has shown that students who participate in music all four years of high school perform better academically and are more likely to succeed in college admissions. Long-term involvement in music demonstrates valuable qualities such as discipline, teamwork, and dedication—traits that colleges and universities highly appreciate. Music students are often considered outstanding examples of commitment and perseverance.
If you have any questions about these changes, please don’t hesitate to reach out to either Mr. Fagundes or Mr. Nishimori. We are here to help you navigate these updates and ensure you have the best possible experience in our music program.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our music department. We look forward to a successful year ahead.
With gratitude,
Mr. Fagundes and Mr. Nishimori