Concert Band

The Concert Band is the primary performing organization of the Darien High School Band program. The goal of this ensemble is to study and perform quality literature written for the Wind Band medium. Seating and part placement is determined by the director based on the student’s ability to demonstrate range and other musical attributes. Full rehearsals are held daily and sectional rehearsals are scheduled periodically throughout each semester. Students are also required to attend three lessons per marking period. The Concert Band usually presents a December, February and May concert and performs at graduation. 

Wind Ensemble

The honors wind ensemble was created to give advanced students more challenging music to practice and perform. To participate in Wind Ensemble, students must audition at the concert band midterm or final. Throughout the year, members of this ensemble will practice more difficult music, as well as selected Concert Band pieces.  In each concert, members will play with the regular band and will play their advanced music as a separate ensemble.

  Percussion Ensemble

All percussion students, except those accepted into Wind Ensemble, are members of the percussion ensemble.  Students engage in a in-depth study of percussion techniques on all percussion instruments, and will perform with the Band at all concert performances.  

Blue Wave Pep Band

Band members function as the Blue Wave Pep Band for the home football games and the Memorial Day Parade. Concert band students are not required, but are strongly encouraged, to participate.  Wind Ensemble students must participate in three of the four home games.

All bands are involved in state or regional adjudication festivals and other school musical activities. Attendance at scheduled performances is mandatory.  Members are expected to attend pre-season band rehearsals prior to the first day of school.