Ensembles

Waconia Band Program Overview

Waconia Bands offer students a rich and rewarding musical experience beginning in 5th grade and continuing through high school. Our program focuses on skill development, ensemble performance, and a lifelong appreciation for music. All bands perform regularly throughout the year, and students are encouraged to participate in our annual Solo and Ensemble Festival.

Waconia High School

Varsity Band (Grade 9) - Designed for 9th-grade students, this course focuses on developing tone quality, scales, rhythms, and strong rehearsal techniques. Students will explore music in a variety of styles. 

Symphonic Band (Grade 10, by audition) - This performance ensemble emphasizes musicianship fundamentals—tone, rhythm, balance, blend, technique, and musical understanding. Music from a range of styles is studied and performed.

Concert Band (Grades 10–12, by audition) - A performance-focused class dedicated to advancing students’ musical technique and ensemble skills. Students work on tone, rhythm, blend, and ensemble awareness through a variety of musical styles.

Wind Ensemble (Grades 10–12, by audition) - The most advanced concert ensemble. Students study and perform band literature from all genres. Curriculum includes music theory, history, terminology, and form through performance, listening, and discussion. Includes performances, contests, and annual tours.

Pep Band - The WHS Pep Band brings school spirit to home sporting events. All students are encouraged to participate in this energetic and fun ensemble.

Jazz I & Jazz II (Grade Level: 9-12, by audition) - These jazz ensembles meet outside the school day and perform a wide range of jazz—from classic standards to modern and exploratory works. They perform locally and attend clinics and festivals throughout the Midwest.

Show Choir Band (Grade Level: 9-12 , by audition) Students are encouraged to audition for the show choir bands, Megawatt and Watt. These auditions are held each fall for the current school year during jazz band auditions. Questions about Show Choir Band can be directed to Mr. Olson (aolson@isd110.org).

Lettering in Band

Students have the opportunity to earn a varsity letter in band. Students are responsible for keeping track of their letter points. Lettering Applications can be filled out during April and are awarded during the final concert. Click HERE if you would like to view the lettering form/requirements for WHS Band students. We complete lettering forms in class during the spring.

Waconia Middle School 

Gold Jazz Band (Grade 6) - An introduction to jazz for 6th-grade band students, focusing on jazz style and ensemble basics.

Purple Jazz Band (Grades 7–8) - Open to all 7th and 8th-grade students interested in jazz performance.

Wildcat Jazz Band (Grades 7–8, by audition) - An advanced jazz ensemble for experienced middle school students. Performs at additional concerts and participates in field trips.

Percussion Ensemble (Grades 6–8) - Open to all Waconia Middle School percussionists. This ensemble explores percussion-specific techniques and repertoire.

Middle School Pep Band (Grades 6–8) - Designed to provide a fun, energetic musical experience for all middle school band students. Pep Band events often align with high school varsity games.

Waconia Elementary Schools

Elementary band is offered at all three district schools:

• Bayview Elementary

• Laketown Elementary

• Southview Elementary

Students begin their band journey in 5th grade and perform throughout the school year. All 5th-grade students participate in the district-wide Solo and Ensemble event.

A Tradition of Excellence

From beginner to advanced ensembles, Waconia concert bands foster musical growth, teamwork, and performance excellence. Our programs provide students with the tools and opportunities to succeed musically—and beyond.