IVCHS Band Program
Class Descriptions
Band
Course:
Marching/Symphonic/Concert Bands, Wind Ensemble (Rev. 1-09) Credit: 0.5 - 1 semester
Open to Grade(s): 9-12 Pre-requisite: Grade school band program or instructor's permission
Fall Semester Band is open to all students that have successfully completed a Junior High Band Program. Students without previous experience may enroll with permission of the High School Band Instructor. The IVC Band is a very comprehensive full year program. Students can look forward to many educational and musically fulfilling experiences. Students will learn about composition, musical structures, advanced performance techniques, and the historical and social significance of each prepared work. Non-musical outcomes include individual and group goal setting, leadership training, pride development, work planning, and self-discipline.
The first quarter deals exclusively with the Marching Band. Shortly after entering the second quarter, the Marching Band breaks down into two or three Concert Bands depending on enrollment. Students will be placed into one of these ensembles based on an audition or at the discretion of the Band Staff. Each year, Marching Band requires a sports physical, and Activity Code forms. Students begin with mini Camp the week following Memorial Day. This includes incoming 8th Graders. Summer Practice will begin mid July with weekly practice and sectionals, ramping up to 2 a days right before Band Camp the first week of August.
Concert Band - This is our spring semester intermediate group and will perform standard high school band literature. The IVC Concert Band performs a variety of music, including classic band literature, popular tunes, and educational pieces designed to enhance musicianship. The Concert Band focuses on building a strong foundation in instrumental techniques, ensemble playing, and musical interpretation. It provides an inclusive and supportive environment where all students can grow and enjoy making music together.
Wind Ensemble - The spring semester Wind Ensemble performs a diverse repertoire, including classical wind literature, contemporary compositions, and challenging arrangements. Members of the Wind Ensemble demonstrate high technical proficiency, musicality, and commitment to excellence. Enrollment for this group is open only to those students of the highest performance abilities and is limited to a specific instrumentation set by the Director. Demands on the student are very high and outside private instruction is strongly recommended. Literature addressed by this ensemble is college level and at home practice is required. Students enrolled in this level are required to participate in all Concerts, Contests, and Festivals.
The IVC Band has a long tradition of excellence in performance and our graduates are welcomed into any college band program, many with scholarships. In order to maintain this reputation, those students that do enroll will be expected to work and WORK HARD. All Band members are encouraged to participate in one of the extracurricular groups.
Music Theory
Courses:
Music Theory I
Credit: 0.5 - 1 semester
Open to Grade(s): 11 - 12
Prerequisite: Ability to read music, band, choir, piano, guitar
This course is designed chiefly for either the experienced performing student who plans to take courses in music on the college level or for the student who wishes to develop a strong musical background. This course exposes the student to a basic understanding of the fundamentals of music theory and provides some background in music history. This course not only exposes the students to basic music composition but requires them to do original composition projects. Students will be exposed to intervallic ear training, all piano scales and melodic dictation. The class is very fast paced and considered a prep course for college level music theory. Students are recommended to take Music Fundamentals prior to this class if the student has any reservations.
Music Theory II
Credit: 0.5 - 1 semester
Open to Grade(s): 11 - 12
Prerequisite: Music Theory I
This course is designed for the student who wishes to study music on the college level. Music literature and music theory will be studied extensively. Students will also be required to practice music composition skills.
Extracurricular Groups
Pep Band
The IVC Pep Band brings energy and excitement to home basketball games, performing upbeat tunes that keep the crowd engaged and the team's spirit high. With lively performances and infectious enthusiasm, the Pep Band plays a key role in fostering school pride and creating an electric game-day atmosphere. All spring semester students are required to participate in Pep Band.
Each year we host a District Jazz Night in February that highlights the Jr. High Jazz bands, all High School Jazz groups and a guest group from the area.
Students must be enrolled in Band for at least one semester to be eligible for Jazz Band.
Jazz dress code is all black with colored tie. The color is determined at the beginning of each Jazz Season.
Bands travel to Rolling Meadows Jazz Festival each year on an overnight field trip.
Cost is approximately $100 plus spending money.
Regional and All State Music groups occurs in early Oct. Students interested should consult with Mr. Chapman ASAP.
The IVC Color Guard adds visual excitement and artistry to our marching band performances. Combining dance, flag work, and other props, the Color Guard enhances the music with synchronized routines that bring the show to life. Members of the Color Guard develop skills in choreography, teamwork, and performance, creating captivating visual displays that complement the band's music. Whether performing at football games, parades, or competitions, the IVC Color Guard is a vibrant and essential part of our band program, captivating audiences with their energy and precision.
Contact IVC's Guard coaches at ivcghostguard@gmail.com
Winter Drumline
Drumline Clinics are held at various times during the year. Email ivcbands@ivcbands.com (Subject: Drumline) and a staff person will contact you.