Electives Course
Concert Band (Grades 6-8)
The Cocalico Middle School Band program is open to all instrumentalists in grades 6-8. Students do not need to audition for entrance to this course. All experience levels are welcome to participate. Instrumental lessons are a required component of Concert Band and are scheduled on a rotating basis and grouped by like-instrument. (Attendance at 1 sectional per cycle is required.) The Concert Band performs a minimum of 3 concerts per year with additional performances possibly scheduled by the director. Membership to the Concert Band is required for students interested in participating in Jazz Ensemble or PMEA/LLMEA band festivals.
Activities/Clubs
Band Council
Band Council is an elected group with representatives from every section of the band. Students interested in participating complete an application process in the fall and are chosen through an election process. Band council members meet once a month before school on a Friday morning. Breakfast is provided on these days. Band council organizes and coordinates band events, fundraising activities, and develops activities advocating musical involvement.
Jazz Ensemble
Cocalico Middle School Jazz Ensemble is a club designed for 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students to rehearse and perform music related to the jazz/pop field. The Jazz Ensemble meets before school in January two times a week. Due to the advanced nature of the music, students typically have 3 years of experience and lessons on an instrument to be eligible for this club.
Marching Band
Band students have the opportunity to perform in the fall as a member of the marching and pep bands. The marching/pep band experience is very informal and gives students a "taste" of what to expect as a member of the high school marching band.