Music Department
Torrey Pines High School
Band Program
The Band courses at Torrey Pines offer wind and percussion players a wide variety of performance levels and styles of playing. Our course progression consists of three classes that range from the intermediate to the advanced level: Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, and Jazz Band. These classes are open to players with prior experience playing their instrument. Enrollment in Wind Ensemble and Jazz Band is by audition only. No audition is necessary for Symphonic Band.
Symphonic Band
The Symphonic Band provides students with an in-depth study of band repertoire at the intermediate level. This class is open to 9th – 12th graders. Prior experience is required; this class is not for beginners. Students will strengthen their technical skills on their instrument and gain valuable experience in ensemble playing and performing.
Wind Ensemble
The Wind Ensemble is the top level band ensemble for wind and percussion players at TPHS. This is an audition only class and is open to 9th-12th graders, although the class consists mainly of upperclassmen. The Wind Ensemble studies a variety of band literature at the advanced to collegiate level. This ensemble earns high marks at the SCSBOA festival each year and often advances to the SCSBOA regional competition.
Jazz Band
The TPHS Jazz Band is comprised of a select group of advanced musicians. Most students in this ensemble are juniors and seniors. Enrollment in Jazz Band is by audition only. The auditions are competitive for this ensemble due to the small size of the group. Previous experience in jazz is recommended. Instrumentation consists of traditional big band winds and rhythm section. Various jazz styles are studied, giving students an opportunity to develop their improvisation and soloing skills. Students broaden their knowledge of jazz history and theory. The Jazz Band performs often on campus and represents the school in off-campus performances. The band maintains an extensive performance schedule during the competition season.