Instrumental Music
Arvada West High School boasts a robust Instrumental Music program consisting of concert and jazz band, concert orchestra, pit orchestra, marching band, pep band, indoor percussion, and various small ensembles.
Through our high standards and support-based classroom instruction, we at Arvada West pride ourselves on helping develop exceptional citizenship and develop excellence in artistry.
Excellence is our expectation.
About
Boosters
The Arvada West Instrumental Music Boosters (AWIMB) are an organization of dedicated band and orchestra parents who have volunteered to donate their time and energy to the betterment of the program.
AWIMB takes on a number of critical responsibilities, ranging from serving food at band camp to organizing entire fundraisers and planning events. Most of our funding comes from the events that are planned by boosters, and they are responsible for many behind-the-scenes functions of the program.
All the decorations for our Holiday Collage Concert? That’s boosters! Our annual rummage sale? Boosters. Want to get involved? Take a look at the form below; every little bit helps.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I join the instrumental music program as a student?
Students can register for IM classes at the beginning of each semester. Concert orchestra, chamber orchestra and wind ensemble also require a separate audition. For other circumstances, please contact Mrs. Wiarda or Mr. Vanlandingham directly.
How can I join the marching band?
Marching band informational meetings will take place in April and May of each year. Students will have the opportunity to attend try-it days and gain information about the program. Enrollment is done at the end of each school year through these meetings.
Do I need to have played an instrument in middle school to play in the band?
No! The only requirements for band are a good attitude, a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn. Some of our top students begin playing in band during their freshman or sophomore year. Additionally, many of our marching members learn new instruments for the marching season.
Is the spring pep band a part of the marching band?
The marching band and spring pep band are two separate ensembles; however, marching band leaders are expected to form the core group of the pep band. All students who are enrolled in a curricular concert band class (symphonic band, wind ensemble) are expected to attend three pep band events during the spring, as well as one rehearsal. Exceptions will be made on an individual basis.
Can I participate in marching band and theater at the same time?
Yes, and no. We have lots of students who do both! The theater department offers a fall play and spring musical during the school year. Students are unable to participate in the fall play if they are a marching band members, but many marching students take part in the cast, crew, or pit orchestra for the spring musical.
Are upper-level ensembles (concert orchestra, chamber orchestra, wind ensemble) available to only juniors and seniors?
No. Students of any grade level are welcome to audition for any ensemble. Selection for all upper-level ensembles is based on playing ability and the needs of each ensemble. As such, we have a mix of grade levels in each ensemble.
When do IM performances take place?
The performing arts calendar can be found on this page and will be updated regularly. This is the most accurate and up-to-date source of scheduling information. Weekly emails are sent out to parents and students of the IM department.
Events
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