Welcome back to school! We hope you had a relaxing and enjoyable summer. As we begin the year, all HCPSS high school band members are encouraged to apply for the HCPSS High School GT Band. The Gifted and Talented Band will perform in concert on Saturday, January 11, 2020, 7:00 PM at Marriotts Ridge High School.

As you know, Howard County is host to many outstanding music programs. These programs have earned a national reputation for excellence due to the efforts of the students, directors, and parents from our elementary, middle, and high school programs. The goal of the Gifted and Talented Band is to provide a unique musical experience to make great music with students from around the county. With the opportunity to rehearse and perform with renowned conductors, world-class clinicians, and sit alongside other musicians who share a deep passion and commitment to music, the GT Band is a “must” for all serious musicians.

Highlights include:
Master Classes / Section Rehearsals with respected professionals
The “credential” of membership in an elite ensemble of the most outstanding musicians in Howard County

-Applicants MUST be currently enrolled in a HCPSS high school.
-Applicants MUST be members of their school band program.
-Applicants MUST be able to commit to the full rehearsal/performance schedule.

The deadline for student applications is October 11, 2019.

Students will be considered for the ensemble based various factors including a recommendation from their Band Director and also the need to create an ensemble that represents every school in Howard County while also maintaining ideal instrumentation to ensure musical success.

Ensemble Participants will be announced no later than November 5th via emails to all students and directors.

Selected students will be charged a fee of $100.00 to cover the costs associated with this program. Students that are selected to participate will be required to pay the fee by November 15 or they will forfeit their position to another student.

-Student Applications due by 10/11
-Director Ratings due by 10/18
-Notification of acceptance by 11/5
-Accepted Student confirmation forms and payments due 11/15
-Music sent out to students by 12/6
-Seating Auditions for students on a 1st part in their section will take place prior to the second rehearsal, 2:45pm the same day.

Applicants MUST be able to commit to the full rehearsal/performance schedule.

-Prep Rehearsal - January 4, 9am - 1pm @ Wilde Lake High School
-Prep Rehearsal - January 9, 3:30pm - 8:30pm @ Wilde Lake High School
-Prep Rehearsal - January 10, 3:30pm - 8:30pm @ Wilde Lake High School
-Dress Rehearsal - January 11, 10am - 1pm @ Marriotts Ridge High School
-Performance - January 11, 7pm (Call-Time 6pm) @ Marriotts Ridge High School