In 1996-7, student interest in participating in band at Concord-Carlisle reached such a height that the formation of a second concert band was essential. At that time, a Freshman Band was formed. In 1997-8, freshmen registrations dropped off significantly, and a Freshman Band was not required for that particular year. However, in 1998, enrollments increased again, and have continued to grow each year.

Registrations for the 2001-2 band program have jumped to 168 students, creating unprecedented demands on our facilities and equipment.  To accommodate all of these enthusiastic musicians, we have formed the new and exciting Repertory Band comprised of CCHS freshmen and sophomores.

The Repertory Band is a traditional large concert band with the standard woodwinds, brass and percussion format.  It rehearses four times per week during the regularly scheduled school day, and occasionally in the evenings, as the need arises.  The band is a graded course and earns credit towards graduation.

Any freshman or sophomore who plays a band instrument is eligible for participation...there is no entry audition requirement.  When freshmen and sophomores register for classes, and band, in February, they are automatically placed in Repertory Band.  Exceptions are made only for sophomores who demonstrate the talent to play the advanced literature of Concert Band.  Sophomores who sign up for, and pass, the rigorous January audition,  may register in February for Concert Band, rather than Repertory Band.

The Repertory Band performs four regularly scheduled concerts during the school year (one per quarter), at the annual Massachusetts Instrumental and Choral Conductors Association (MICCA) State Concert Festival in April, and at the Concord-Carlisle Graduation Ceremony in June. Attendance at all concerts is mandatory and a required component of the course expectations.  Please be certain to check the 'Calendar' section of this web site for exact dates.  Paper copies of the year's calendar and course expectations are distributed to every band member during the first week of school in September.

The Repertory Band plays some of the most challenging repertoire available for students of this age level.  Practice is essential and, although not required, private lessons are highly encouraged. While the basics of playing one's instrument are revisited and stressed during rehearsals, students should not expect to learn how to play their instrument in band.  Band rehearsals are for the sole purpose of learning to play the band music with others. Although there is no entry audition to Rep Band, there is an expectation that students' instrumental skills are at a sufficient level to enable them to perform the literature offered in the course.

Members in good standing of the Repertory Band are eligible for the same musical opportunities that are available to Concert Band members. For example, they may audition for Massachusetts Music Educators Association (MMEA) sponsored Junior and Senior District Ensembles, and All-State Festivals. They may be members of the Concord-Carlisle Pep Band. They may also participate in the annual musical, or in the Jazz Bands.

Like the Concert Band, Repertory Band members audition for a grade each quarter. They are issued music and a uniform, and they are subject to the same high expectations as the Concert Band members. 

The only facet of the program that the Repertory Band are not eligible for, is the upcoming visit to Japan.  However, members of the Repertory Band in 2001-2 have an excellent chance of being involved in the trip, as many will have graduated to the Concert Band in sufficient time.

The hard work and enthusiasm of the Repertory Band promises to make this a dynamic ensemble - one that all of us will be very proud to have representing CCHS.