Symphonic Band
Welcome!
This is where it all began in 1926! LLHS has had a successful symphonic band program since the foundation of the school. With honors and awards that have been accumulated throughout the years, this group has a strong foundation in musicianship and a bright future! All students who are interested in participating in band are welcome to join this group!
What in the world is ‘Symphonic Band’…?
The term ‘symphonic’ is an adjective that means ‘having harmony of sound’, therefore a Symphonic Band is a group of musicians who play musical instruments together, in harmony, to produce a beautiful piece of music. Symphonic Band is the lower- but definitely not lesser!- of the two concert-focused large musical groups.
Symphonic Band at LLHS
Symphonic Band is made up of students who can demonstrate the proper tone, proficiency in the techniques of proper breathing and tonguing, and the necessary skill of reading and performing written music (including sight-reading) on a band instrument. Students in all classes (9-12) are eligible for this group. Membership is determined in the Fall by the band director and assistant directors. This is a performing group presenting concerts, and assembly programs, and participating in parades, clinics, festivals and other school and community activities. Attendance at ALL performances, sectionals, and rehearsals is required. This group may also take a trip to an appropriate festival each spring.
Expectations and Eligibility
Membership in the Tiger Symphonic Band requires a substantial commitment of time, energy, and effort. Placement in this group is at the discretion of the Band Directors. Rehearsals take place during school hours, however, it is expected that students practice at home a minimum of 30 minutes per day, at least six days a week. Students in this group are also encouraged to audition for District Honor Band, All-State Band, and Southwest Honor Band.
Additionally, students must maintain eligibility requirements as determined by the New Mexico Activities Association to be a full member of the marching band. This includes submitting an annual physical as well as maintaining a 2.0 GPA. Further information can be found on the NMAA website.
Lettering Requirements
General Band Requirements:
1. A student must have at least one and one-half years of service with the LLHS Tiger Band to be eligible for a letter. Exceptions may be made for transfer students from other schools that have completed one successful year in the LLHS Tiger Band. Exceptions will be handled on an individual basis by the band director.
2. Freshman lettering will be retroactive. A student may receive a letter for their freshman year if they have earned enough points to be eligible. However, they may not receive the letter until they have met the requirements for the second year. It is felt that the student must have at least one and one-half years of service with the LLHS Tiger Band in order to be eligible for the letter awards.
3. A student must attend ALL required performances in order to letter. Missing a required performance, in any ensemble, will result in no letter for that year. In the case of excused absences approved by the directors ahead of time, students may make up lettering points by doing extra service projects.