Summer Band Camp

The FPW Band Program: Excellence in Musical Education

The FPW Band Program is dedicated to providing students with a dynamic and vibrant musical experience, fostering artistic growth and personal development. Through a combination of dedicated instruction, supportive parents, and an engaged community, our program sets the standard for musical excellence in St. Lucie County.

Our Core Ensembles

The program offers a comprehensive selection of ensembles designed to meet students at their current skill level and challenge them to grow:
  • Symphonic Band: This foundational ensemble is the required entry point for all ninth-grade students who choose to participate in the band program. It focuses on developing essential musicianship and ensemble skills.
  • Percussion Ensemble: Percussion students will hone their technical skills through a focused study of percussion fundamentals and specialized ensemble literature, complementing the main band curriculum.
  • Wind Ensemble: As the program’s premier performing wind ensemble, the Wind Ensemble represents the school at the annual FBA MPA Concert Festival each spring. Participation in this advanced ensemble is open to all eligible students, with freshman involvement determined at the discretion of the director.
  • Auxiliary: These talented students serve as our Color Guard, providing the visual energy and artistry of the program. They act as majorettes in the stands during games and perform as flag spinners and dancers on the field. The Auxiliary participates in a broad range of events, including community performances, pep rallies, concerts, and Solo and Ensemble.
  • Concert Band: This class serves two important roles: it functions as a beginning band for new musicians and provides current band students with a valuable opportunity to develop proficiency on a secondary instrument.

 

Commitment to Excellence

Our students are expected to embody a standard of excellence that extends beyond the classroom. The FPW Band Program is committed to developing upstanding citizens who grow musically, mentally, ethically, and physically. This high expectation, coupled with the commitment of hard-working students and a supportive network, makes our program truly unequaled in the county.

 

Band Director

Mr. Justin Read

 

Marching Practice during Summer Band Camp

Course Descriptions

 

FPW Panther Regiment:

The Marching Band is a cornerstone of the FPW Band Program. Membership in this ensemble is mandatory for all band students.
The Marching Band is active throughout the fall semester, representing the school and community at various events, including Varsity football games, local parades, and special civic functions.
To ensure our high standard of performance, all members must attend the mandatory annual Band Camp scheduled before the start of the school year. The ensemble rehearses twice weekly after school and competes at various marching contests, culminating with a performance at the FBA Marching Festival.

 

Wind Ensemble:

The Wind Ensemble is the premier performing wind band and requires successful completion of an audition with the director for membership.
Members of this advanced ensemble are expected to maintain a high level of musical dedication. They perform at the annual Winter and Spring Concerts and represent the school at the FBA Concert Festival.
Students in the Wind Ensemble are strongly encouraged to participate in the District Solo and Ensemble Festival, as well as to audition for prestigious honors groups, including the All-State Band and Four-County Band.

Symphonic Band:

The Symphonic Band is the foundational concert ensemble, primarily designed for freshmen and students seeking to strengthen their instrumental technique and musicianship.
This group performs at the annual Winter and Spring Concerts and is actively involved in the FBA Concert Festival.
Members are encouraged to participate in the District Solo and Ensemble Festival. Additionally, students are motivated to audition and participate in various honors groups, including the All-State Band, All-County Honor Band, and Four-County Band.

 

Percussion Ensemble:

Membership in the Percussion Ensemble is required for all percussionists and students interested in specialized percussion study.
This essential group provides the rhythmic foundation for the program, participating in every performance with both the Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band. Additionally, the Percussion Ensemble showcases its dedicated repertoire during the annual Winter and Spring Concerts.
Members are required to perform at the District Solo and Ensemble Festival. Furthermore, students are strongly encouraged to audition for prestigious honors groups such as the All-State Band and Four-County Band.

Jazz Band:

Membership in the Jazz Band is secured by audition or director permission.
This ensemble is highly active, representing the program at the annual District Jazz Music Performance Assessment. The Jazz Band performs for the community throughout the year, appearing at both the Winter and Spring Concerts as well as various community engagement events.
Members are strongly encouraged to audition for the prestigious All-State Jazz Band.

Concert Band:

The Concert Band is open to all students interested in learning a musical instrument.
This class follows an accelerated beginning band curriculum, starting with instrument selection and quickly moving through fundamental skills. Students will need to purchase a required music book for practice and rehearsal. While some school instruments are available, students are strongly encouraged to rent their own instrument due to limited supplies.
After successfully completing one year in the Concert Band, students will have the option to continue their musical studies in one of the other performance ensembles.