The Christian Brothers Instrumental Music Program offers comprehensive training in performance, theory and history, all intended to provide students a foundation in the arts- preparing them for careers in professional music, teaching, or related fields. There are many levels of ability a student can choose from, and classes include:
- Beginning Band (class) is for any students that have little or no music experience and would like to learn how to play an instrument.
- Concert Band (class) is for students that have learned how to read music and can play their instrument with minimal assistance. This band is auditioned.
- Honors Band (class) is for advanced instrumentalists that perform at many events and enjoy playing challenging music. This band is auditioned.
- Jazz Band (class) is for our advanced performing students. They participate in well known festivals and travel. This class meets after school, and is auditioned.
- String Orchestra (class) is for our string instrumentalists (violin/viola/cello/acoustic bass). All levels of abilities are accepted into this group.
- Pep Band is formed by the Honors Band and Concert Band members during the fall football season which play at most home games.
- Drumline is formed from the members of the Honors Band class, and plays at sporting events, rallies and other specialized events.
- Spring Musicals are a combined "pit orchestra" of members from the Honors, Concert, String, and Jazz Band classes. Over the past years, they have performed, "Grease", "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum", "The Wiz", "The Music Man", "Pippin" and "Fiddler on the Roof". This is an auditioned group.
All students from all performing ensembles are also encouraged to participate in the "Golden Empire Festivals" for large ensembles and solo competitions as well as "All State" competitions. The requirements for all classes are flexible enough to allow each student to specialize or generalize as appropriate. If you would like more information, set up an appointment, or audition, please contact the Instrumental Music Department Director Mr. Travis Maslen by calling (916) 733-3666 or by e-mail tmaslen@cbhs-sacramento.org