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AUDITION INFORMATION
2026 - 2027 |
ABOUT THE BAND PROGRAM...
The MtH Bands are academic courses in which students learn concrete intellectual knowledge, the physical skills and disciplines necessary to perform on a musical instrument, and an appreciation for music, musicianship, and beauty. The MtH Bands are comprised of students in 9th-12th grade who elect to participate in band. Similar to other academic courses, the bands meet daily during the 50-minute class period. Unlike other academic courses, in the Band Program, the quality of the end product and other students' educational experiences depend on the ensemble's combined efforts.
All students are welcome, including pure beginners and students interested in switching from another instrument.
QUESTIONS?
Contact Dr. Fischer (Band Director) at [email protected] for more information.
All students are welcome, including pure beginners and students interested in switching from another instrument.
QUESTIONS?
Contact Dr. Fischer (Band Director) at [email protected] for more information.
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
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A MESSAGE FROM OUR MASCOT
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ENSEMBLES...
Wind Ensemble (GT) / Marching Band
The MtH Wind Ensemble (GT) is a curricular ensemble open to students in grades 9-12 that explores standard wind and percussion repertoire. This group performs multiple concerts throughout the year, performing music at an advanced grade level of difficulty. Students in this ensemble are eligible to receive GT (weighted) credit.
*Marching Band is a required component of this course; however, participation is very flexible. See below for more information.
The MtH Wind Ensemble (GT) is a curricular ensemble open to students in grades 9-12 that explores standard wind and percussion repertoire. This group performs multiple concerts throughout the year, performing music at an advanced grade level of difficulty. Students in this ensemble are eligible to receive GT (weighted) credit.
*Marching Band is a required component of this course; however, participation is very flexible. See below for more information.
Symphonic Winds / Marching Band
The MtH Symphonic Winds is a curricular ensemble open to students in grades 9-12 that explores standard wind and percussion repertoire. This group performs multiple concerts throughout the year, performing music at an intermediate/advanced grade level of difficulty.
*Marching Band is a required component of this course; however, participation is very flexible. See below for more information.
The MtH Symphonic Winds is a curricular ensemble open to students in grades 9-12 that explores standard wind and percussion repertoire. This group performs multiple concerts throughout the year, performing music at an intermediate/advanced grade level of difficulty.
*Marching Band is a required component of this course; however, participation is very flexible. See below for more information.
Symphonic Band / Marching Band
The MtH Symphonic Band is a curricular ensemble open to students in grades 9-12 that explores standard wind and percussion repertoire. This group performs multiple concerts throughout the year, performing music at an intermediate grade level of difficulty.
*Marching Band is a required component of this course; however, participation is very flexible. See below for more information.
The MtH Symphonic Band is a curricular ensemble open to students in grades 9-12 that explores standard wind and percussion repertoire. This group performs multiple concerts throughout the year, performing music at an intermediate grade level of difficulty.
*Marching Band is a required component of this course; however, participation is very flexible. See below for more information.
Percussion Ensemble / Percussion Ensemble (GT)
The MtH Percussion Ensemble (GT) is a curricular ensemble open to students in grades 9 - 12 that explores and develops percussion techniques/skills, as well as repertoire designed specifically for percussion instruments. This group performs multiple concerts throughout the year, both as an ensemble and as an extension of the other performing ensembles.
*Marching Band is a required component of this course; however, participation is very flexible. See below for more information.
The MtH Percussion Ensemble (GT) is a curricular ensemble open to students in grades 9 - 12 that explores and develops percussion techniques/skills, as well as repertoire designed specifically for percussion instruments. This group performs multiple concerts throughout the year, both as an ensemble and as an extension of the other performing ensembles.
*Marching Band is a required component of this course; however, participation is very flexible. See below for more information.
Mt. Hebron Marching Unit
We are very proud of the history and tradition of the MtH Marching Unit (MU), which dates back to 1964, when the school first opened. The MU is an all-inclusive ensemble that combines the talents of the Percussion Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Symphonic Winds, and Wind Ensemble. This ensemble is joined by two auditioned auxiliary groups: The Colorguard and the Dance Team. The MU is visible throughout the community and region, performing in parades, community events, and during pregame and halftime of all home football games. Students also enjoy the opportunity to perform as a Pep Band for away football games and other athletic events throughout the year.
NOTE: Marching Band is a required component of the Mt. Hebron Band program; however, participation is flexible. Winds and percussion students who are enrolled in a performing ensemble will be asked to choose one of the following options. For more details or to discuss specific concerns, please reach out to Dr. Fischer.
We are very proud of the history and tradition of the MtH Marching Unit (MU), which dates back to 1964, when the school first opened. The MU is an all-inclusive ensemble that combines the talents of the Percussion Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Symphonic Winds, and Wind Ensemble. This ensemble is joined by two auditioned auxiliary groups: The Colorguard and the Dance Team. The MU is visible throughout the community and region, performing in parades, community events, and during pregame and halftime of all home football games. Students also enjoy the opportunity to perform as a Pep Band for away football games and other athletic events throughout the year.
NOTE: Marching Band is a required component of the Mt. Hebron Band program; however, participation is flexible. Winds and percussion students who are enrolled in a performing ensemble will be asked to choose one of the following options. For more details or to discuss specific concerns, please reach out to Dr. Fischer.
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OPTION A - Full Marching Participation
As a full participant in the marching unit, students are required to commit to:
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OPTION B - Modified Marching Participation
As modified participants in the marching band, students are required to:
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AUDITIONS...
NOTE: ALL auditions are completed via video and are for placement only! These auditions ensure that you are scheduled in the ensemble that best fits your educational needs and musical proficiency.
Below is a list of core skills and fundamentals that students must demonstrate with proficiency, in addition to the formal audition. This is an important list because, over time, it is not uncommon for poor habits to become ingrained in muscle memory. As a result, significant time and practice are needed to reinforce proper technique. Students should focus on these technique points every day. Returning students should keep in mind that the audition happens every day in class and is based on demonstrated progress throughout the year. The Formal Audition is only one component of a complete audition.
Prerequisite Skill Set
Given the nature of large-group musical instruction, individual needs are not easily addressed regularly. Because of this, I am always willing to meet with individual students during Viking Time or before and after school (as schedules permit). Private lessons provide even more focused instruction to help students achieve their personal goals. The vast majority of Wind Ensemble members have engaged in consistent private study at some point in their musical development, and most are currently taking lessons. I would be happy to provide additional information and help find a teacher with whom you will work well. I want to help every student achieve their musical goals. Please keep in close contact so we can put together a plan with an appropriate, achievable timeline. Never hesitate to ask for feedback as you prepare for an audition or performance assessment.
- All new and returning students may audition for placement in the Wind Ensemble (GT) or Percussion Ensemble (GT).
- All new and returning students who do not audition will be placed into the Symphonic Band, Symphonic Winds, or Percussion Ensemble.
- Jazz Ensemble/Combo is a co-curricular ensemble that meets outside of the school day. Auditions are held in the fall. More information will be posted as school begins.
- The Mt. Hebron Marching Unit is a required component for ALL Wind and Percussion students. No audition is required!
Below is a list of core skills and fundamentals that students must demonstrate with proficiency, in addition to the formal audition. This is an important list because, over time, it is not uncommon for poor habits to become ingrained in muscle memory. As a result, significant time and practice are needed to reinforce proper technique. Students should focus on these technique points every day. Returning students should keep in mind that the audition happens every day in class and is based on demonstrated progress throughout the year. The Formal Audition is only one component of a complete audition.
Prerequisite Skill Set
- Proper (fundamental) playing position and posture\
- Full, resonant, and consistent tone production
- Clear articulations and note lengths
- Mastery of all current ensemble music
- Mastery of all current ensemble Daily Drill Exercises
- Daily demonstration of a positive attitude, positive participation, work ethic, and a desire to grow & learn
- Daily demonstration of maturity and proper rehearsal etiquette
Given the nature of large-group musical instruction, individual needs are not easily addressed regularly. Because of this, I am always willing to meet with individual students during Viking Time or before and after school (as schedules permit). Private lessons provide even more focused instruction to help students achieve their personal goals. The vast majority of Wind Ensemble members have engaged in consistent private study at some point in their musical development, and most are currently taking lessons. I would be happy to provide additional information and help find a teacher with whom you will work well. I want to help every student achieve their musical goals. Please keep in close contact so we can put together a plan with an appropriate, achievable timeline. Never hesitate to ask for feedback as you prepare for an audition or performance assessment.
HOW TO AUDITION...
Audition Videos are due no later than Wednesday, January 7.
RETURNING STUDENTS
Step #1 - Review, Print, and Rehearse the AUDITION REQUIREMENTS
Step #2 - Record your video audition.
Step #3 - Submit your video HERE!
NOTE: Dr. Fischer will meet with all students during the registration window to discuss course registration.
Step #1 - Review, Print, and Rehearse the AUDITION REQUIREMENTS
Step #2 - Record your video audition.
Step #3 - Submit your video HERE!
NOTE: Dr. Fischer will meet with all students during the registration window to discuss course registration.
NEW STUDENTS
Step #1 - Review, Print, and Rehearse the AUDITION REQUIREMENTS
Step #2 - Complete the STUDENT INFORMATION FORM
Step #3 - Record your video audition.
Step #4 - Submit your video HERE!
NOTE: NEW students should register for the following when selecting classes.
Step #1 - Review, Print, and Rehearse the AUDITION REQUIREMENTS
Step #2 - Complete the STUDENT INFORMATION FORM
Step #3 - Record your video audition.
Step #4 - Submit your video HERE!
NOTE: NEW students should register for the following when selecting classes.
- Woodwinds / Brass - MU-600 (Symphonic Winds/Marching)
- Percussion - MU-480 (Percussion Ensemble)
NO EXPERIENCE? NO PROBLEM!
Step #1 - Review the BEGINNER'S WELCOME! information
Step #2 - Complete the STUDENT INFORMATION FORM
Step #3 - Contact Dr. Fischer at [email protected] for further details.
Step #1 - Review the BEGINNER'S WELCOME! information
Step #2 - Complete the STUDENT INFORMATION FORM
Step #3 - Contact Dr. Fischer at [email protected] for further details.
AUDITION GUIDELINES...
- Record in landscape and be sure that you can see your instrument, hands, and posture in your recording.
- Be sure to have a metronome audible during your recording.
- Record all requirements in ONE VIDEO!
- Label your video file... Last name, First name - Instrument
- Tune your instrument before you record.
- Make time to record your audition before the due date so you can review your submission.
- Try to record with a solid colored background and with as little extra noise as possible.
- Check the recording BEFORE submitting to ensure proper audio and video.
