About Us

ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY

Nestled in the heart of Lancaster, Ohio, a city of 40,000 residents situated along US 33, our vibrant community takes pride in its rich musical heritage. The Lancaster City School District, home to over 6,000 students from grades K-12, boasts a robust instrumental music program with 400 participants in grades 6-12. Comprising five elementary schools, two junior high schools, and one high school, our district is the nurturing ground for musical talent and passion.

ABOUT THE LANCASTER BAND PROGRAM

ORIGINS

Dating back to September 17, 1921, our esteemed Lancaster band program emerged when 25 high school students formed a marching band for the Lancaster-Logan football game. Since then, our program has been an integral part of both school and community life, weaving a musical tapestry that binds generations.

BEGINNING BAND

In the spring of their fifth-grade year, elementary students embark on a musical odyssey. They explore, try, and choose their instruments, marking the beginning of their instrumental education. The journey progresses into the sixth grade, where daily band classes, led by specialists in woodwinds, brass, and percussion form the foundation of musical prowess.

SEVENTH AND EIGHTH GRADE

Seventh and eighth-grade students at the junior high level participate in bands organized by grade. Daily rehearsals as full ensembles culminate in spirited performances, including like the holiday and spring concerts. Students also have the opportunity to showcase their talents in an annual solo and ensemble adjudicated event.

HIGH SCHOOL BANDS

Lancaster High School boasts a vibrant music program with over 140 students in grades 9-12 participating in a variety of performing groups. Freshman Band, Concert Band, and Symphonic Band form the core of the high school band program. All ninth grade band members participate in Freshman Band, where students work with all of the directors regularly. Students in grades 10-12 are placed in one of the other two bands, by skill level.

Lancaster High School’s Marching Band, the Band of Gold, is a valuable part of our students’ instrumental music experience. The Band of Gold has had a long tradition of success in the state of Ohio, including participation in OMEA State Marching Band Finals every year since 1981.

After the school day, our program extends into extracurricular offerings. From Percussion Ensemble to Jazz Band, Pep Band, chamber ensembles, and Winter Guard, students have the opportunity to deepen their musical skills and explore varied genres.

The primary objective of the Lancaster high school band program is to instill a lifelong passion for music in students. Emphasis is placed on developing an understanding and appreciation of quality music, fostering a strong work ethic, nurturing independence, and cultivating leadership skills.

Anchors in the Community

Our band program plays a vital and irreplaceable role in Lancaster, actively contributing to the community through performances at parades, athletic games, and various events throughout the year. Notably, our esteemed alumni have further enriched our community as leaders, successful business professionals, accomplished musicians, and dedicated teachers.