Band Fundraiser 2006

The Band performs in a variety of local parades and at many school-related functions such as assemblies and sporting events. The Band hosts two concerts - one at Christmas and one in the Spring. It also performs at our Fine Arts Assembly.

The Band consists of two groups - Concert and Pep bands. Membership is open to all students. Practice during the year is usually from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and after school on Thursdays.

Dear Future Bishop McDevitt Student,

          Are you a musician?  Do you play an instrument?  Would you like to learn how?  Well you are in the right place.  The Bishop McDevitt High School band is opportunity for you to explore music in a fun but informative way.  Our band plays at football games, parades, concerts, and pep rallies.  If you play an instrument and would like to join our band… let me know ASAP by e-mail strainor@mcdevitths.org OR by calling my office 215-887-5575 x248.

          If you are a singer and would like to show us your talents please let me know because we will be starting a choir next year and your presence would be great!!  Don’t hesitate!  Contact me right away so I can let you in on all the exciting events that are going to happen next year.  Don’t forget you can contact me by e-mail strainor@mcdevitths.org OR by calling my office 215-887-5575 x248. 

Instrumental Music Major ~ Track 2

          This course is offered to all students.  Students are scheduled for class three days a week and receive instruction on their respective instruments and study music fundamentals and theory.  All students perform as members of the Concert Band, Marching Band, and Pep Band at school and community functions.  Attendance at all rehearsals and performances is a course requirement.  This course receives a one quarter credit.

Instrumental Music Minor ~ Track 2

          This course is offered to all students.  Students receive one lesson per week on their band or orchestral instrument and attend two band rehearsals a week.  This course meets both semesters.  All students perform as members of the Concert Band, Marching Band, and Pep Band at school and community functions.  Attendance at all rehearsals and performances is a course requirement.  This course receives a one quarter credit.

The Honor Band

The Honor Band consists of 6-8 graders who play musical instruments at the local elementary schools.  There is no audition required to be in the Honor Band.  Their band directors select them as the best students in their band.  There is no audition required to be in the Honor Band.  The elementary students have an opportunity to play in a high school band and have fun while doing it! 

Instrumental Ensemble Course Description and Grading Policy

          Welcome to the Music Department of Bishop McDevitt High School!  This program is one of the most respected programs in this school and your active participation is necessary to be successful in this program.  Your grade is determined as follows:

• 30%- Individual Instrumental Test administered quarterly. 
• 30%- ACTIVE, DAILY participation in ALL class activities.  Cooperation, positive attitude and self-discipline must be displayed at all times in all activities.
• 40%- Attendance at all rehearsals, concerts, parades, etc.  Work schedules are NOT an excuse to miss a concert.  Dates for events are posted on the official school calendar and if any events are added, these dates will be published and/or posted in the music room.  If attendance is impossible, a note from your parents is required stating reason to miss rehearsal.  If students do not have a class with me, you must sign in to practice during ONE of your lunch periods during the week.  5 points will be deducted for each week missed.

Students who wish to audition for All Catholic Band or District Band must be in grades 10, 11, or 12 only.  Materials and audition dates will be available during the first few weeks of school. 
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to call me at school at 215-887-5575 x248 or e-mail me at strainor@mcdevitths.org.  Being a part of this music department will be rewarding for you. 

If needed, you may print the Band Grading Policy Verification below!