The Gretna Middle and High School Band Program is comprised of 6-12th grade students. Students who are interested in band are encouraged to begin their instrument study in 6th grade Beginning Band and continue their involvement through high school, however, joining later on is possible if approved by or invited by the Director. The ensembles offered within the Gretna Band Program are mixed grade levels, allowing younger students the opportunity to play along with older experienced players in various performance settings. See the 'ensembles' tab to learn more about our performance groups.
Mission and Objectives
- To teach instrumental music through performance
- To develop performance skills on the various wind and percussion instruments, dance, and/or color guard
- To provide for the musical needs of the school and community
- To acquaint the students with music theory and history
- To provide all students the opportunity for worthy use of their time, a means for self-expression, and a healthy social experience
- To develop the ability to function as a responsible member of a group, enhance interaction, and develop Espirit de Corps
- To foster leadership skills within each student
- To uphold the mission of Gretna Middle School:
- "To provide opportunities for each student to think, learn and achieve for a technological society."
- To uphold the vision and mission of Gretna High School:
- “To be recognized as a positive learning community that promotes student success.”
- “To provide a safe, pleasant educational environment that promotes learning and personal achievement
Music is a universal language, a pure and unique method of communication. Through music a person can achieve an understanding of beauty, expression, and the appreciation of the finer things in life through the actual participation in them. The program pursues excellence in the education of the student in many areas. The performing arts are designed to strengthen critical thinking, language processing skills, mathematical-logical skills, fine motor development, historical relationships, and relationships with self and others.