Middle School Ensembles

6th Grade Band

The 6th Grade Band is the beginning band class in our school district. Students are introduced to their instruments, instructed on fundamental playing techniques, and exposed to the basics of musicianship.

7th Grade Band
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The 7th Grade Band continues the instruction started in 6th Grade. Fundamental instruction in playing and musicianship are expanded upon and students spend the year in a full-band setting. 

8th Grade Band

The 8th Grade Band is designed to prepare students from participation in the high school band program. Playing is refined, musicianship skills are developed, and students are introduced to the WMHS band tradition.

High School Ensembles

Wind Symphony

The WMHS Wind Symphony is the advanced concert band, performing repertoire at the grade 3-4.5 level. The ensemble participates in OMEA Large Group Adjudicated Events, and band members perform frequently in Collegiate and District Honor Bands. Members are encouraged to take lessons to advance their playing ability. 

Symphonic Band

WMHS Symphonic Band is the intermediate concert band, performing repertoire at the grade 2.5-3 level. The ensemble focuses on fundamentals of playing and the musical development of its members. In the winter the group participates in the OMEA Large Group Adjudicated Event. Members are encouraged to participate in honor bands, take lessons, and further advance their playing ability. 

Jazz Ensemble

The WMHS Jazz Ensemble offers an opportunity for students to learn about and perform various genres of jazz music and its derivatives. The ensemble performs frequently both at school and at community functions. 

Marching Warriors

The WMHS Marching Warriors is a volunteer co-curricular group composed of members of the Symphonic Band and Wind Symphony. The Marching Warriors perform at all varsity football games, pep rallies, parades, and participates in OMEA and Mid-States Band Association competitions. This is the most recognized performance ensemble in the band program, and proudly represents our school and community at events throughout the region. 

Tribe Band

The Tribe Band is the pep band for home boys' and girls' basketball games and other school events. Membership in this ensemble is open to any band member in grades 8-12, and acts as a bridge between the middle school and high school band programs. 

WM Drumline

The Watkins Memorial H.S. Drumline performs year round, focusing on community events once the marching band season concludes in early November. They can frequently be seen at holiday events, Columbus Blue Jackets games, and charitable events. They have also been involved with the Susan G. Komen Foundation's Columbus Race for the Cure since 2012, providing live entertainment and encouragement in the stretch leading up to the race's finish line. In 2014, the group was offered an endorsement contract for Mapex and Majestic percussion instruments and has found great success in using their gear since. 

Watkins Memorial Color Guard

The WM Color Guard begins clinics in the spring with tryouts taking place before the summer band season begins. Under the direction of Ms. Sara Haley, the guard is typically made up of flags and rifles, with other implements introduced as needed. The guard consistently receives high marks at OMEA adjudicated performances.