WARREN CENTRAL Gold Brigade Marching Band
Building memories that last a lifetime!
REGISTER HERE to be a 2020 Gold Brigade Band member
The Warren Central Gold Brigade Marching Band is Warren Central High School's largest, award-winning student organization. For decades, the Warren Central Marching Band has provided positive, life-changing performing arts experiences for thousands of students.
Please take a look at our site to learn more about our programs. Check out the videos of our performances & memorable trips.
Students can sign-up to join this program in the "Membership" section below!
or Register Here
Color Guard Members: Please go to this site to register
REGISTER HERE to be a 2020 Gold Brigade Band member
The Warren Central Gold Brigade Marching Band is Warren Central High School's largest, award-winning student organization. For decades, the Warren Central Marching Band has provided positive, life-changing performing arts experiences for thousands of students.
Please take a look at our site to learn more about our programs. Check out the videos of our performances & memorable trips.
Students can sign-up to join this program in the "Membership" section below!
or Register Here
Color Guard Members: Please go to this site to register
MEMBERS - PLEASE LOG-IN TO CANVAS TO ACCESS ALL GOLD BRIGADE MATERIAL & NEWS
Go to the Canvas site: https://warren.instructure.com/login/canvas
Contact Mr. Meckes at [email protected] if you need help
Go to the Canvas site: https://warren.instructure.com/login/canvas
Contact Mr. Meckes at [email protected] if you need help
OUR PERFORMANCES
2019 Gold Brigade "Fiat Lux"
State Finalists |
2018 Gold Brigade "Mirror, Mirror"
State Champions |
2017 Gold Brigade "Zero to Infinity"
State Champions |
GOLD BRIGADE FUN & MEMORIES
GOLD BRIGADE DOCUMENTARY
|
GOLD BRIGADE 2018 REVIEW
|
MEMBERSHIP
2020 - 2021 Marching Band Registration is NOW OPEN
VIEW THE 2020 Season Calendar and Updates HERE
Questions: Please contact Mr. Meckes at [email protected]
- CLICK HERE TO REGISTER ONLINE
- There is no cost to register! No prior experience is required to register!
- Register to get on our email list to receive more information about the 2020 Summer & Fall Season
- Additional details and membership requirements can be found below in the "About" Section
VIEW THE 2020 Season Calendar and Updates HERE
Questions: Please contact Mr. Meckes at [email protected]
ABOUT THE WARREN Central Gold Brigade Marching Band
WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR MEMBERSHIP IN WARREN CENTRAL'S GOLD BRIGADE MARCHING BAND?
If you, or someone you know is interested in trying something new, making new friends, performing, and having tons of fun, please Register Here
WHAT IS THE WARREN CENTRAL GOLD BRIGADE MARCHING BAND? What am I getting myself into?!
Marching Band is a unique blend of musicianship, athleticism and performance art. We rehearse Mondays after school, Tuesday evenings, and Thursday evenings from August thru October. Students will meet during the summer months for rehearsals to prepare for the fall show. This group is very active in the ISSMA marching band circuit being recognized as a Scholastic Class State Finalists for 7-consecutive-years and was named State Champion in 2017 & 2018.
The Marching band is made up of woodwinds, brass, percussion, and color guard sections. Students in the percussion and color guard are required to try-out for their respective sections. There are no auditions for the woodwind or brass sections. Students in the marching band are required to attend all rehearsals and performances. All woodwind, brass, and percussion students are also required to be enrolled in a concert ensemble that meets during the school day. There will be a fee for the season for this group. Please see OUR BAND HANDBOOK for more marching band information.
WHY SHOULD I JOIN THE GOLD BRIGADE MARCHING BAND?
1. Its Educational: There have been numerous studies that show a correlation between music and academic success. Marching band utilizes and teaches qualities such as determination, responsibility (individual and collective), problem solving, etc. that can be transferred into the classroom and real life. Through the process of practicing and performing on your instrument you are honing many skills that you will use during the school day.
2. Its Social: The friendships and bonds you create through band last for a lifetime. Ask any current or past member, many of their closest friends played in band. Bonds are strengthened through the process of working together for a unified goal creating a strong family atmosphere. For new members coming up from the middle school, band offers an opportunity to get to know friends in the high school and experience the space before the first day of school, creating a strong support network during the transition to a new building.
3. Its a Workout: Recent studies have shown that marching band is one of the most physically demanding activities students can do. When students are putting full effort into their marching and playing they are using nearly every muscle of the body from the mouth and hands (playing their instrument) to the torso and legs (marching). Much like any exercise program, you get out what you put in, if you put in 100% (which is what we expect at Warren Central) effort during every minute of rehearsal you will experience a serious workout.
4. It All-Inclusive: The band is open to anyone who is willing to put in the work. It offers opportunities for all types students to come together and perform together on equal footing. Tall, short, male, female, 8th grade, 12th grade etc, everyone contributes!
5. Its Something You Can Be Proud Of: You will work extremely hard to play your instrument, memorize your music, march with correct posture, march to the correct spot, and hold your horn correctly, often all at the same time. When everything is done you can look back on what you were able to do and you will feel very accomplished.
6. ITS FUN!!!!!!!!!!
THE WARREN CENTRAL GOLD BRIGADE MARCHING BAND IS A 2-TIME SCHOLASTIC A CLASS STATE CHAMPION!
- All Warren Central HS students in Grades 9-12 for the 2020-2021 school year. No prior experience is required for boys & girls in Grades 9, 10, 11 or 12!
- Grade 8 students who are nominated by their middle school band directors.
If you, or someone you know is interested in trying something new, making new friends, performing, and having tons of fun, please Register Here
WHAT IS THE WARREN CENTRAL GOLD BRIGADE MARCHING BAND? What am I getting myself into?!
Marching Band is a unique blend of musicianship, athleticism and performance art. We rehearse Mondays after school, Tuesday evenings, and Thursday evenings from August thru October. Students will meet during the summer months for rehearsals to prepare for the fall show. This group is very active in the ISSMA marching band circuit being recognized as a Scholastic Class State Finalists for 7-consecutive-years and was named State Champion in 2017 & 2018.
The Marching band is made up of woodwinds, brass, percussion, and color guard sections. Students in the percussion and color guard are required to try-out for their respective sections. There are no auditions for the woodwind or brass sections. Students in the marching band are required to attend all rehearsals and performances. All woodwind, brass, and percussion students are also required to be enrolled in a concert ensemble that meets during the school day. There will be a fee for the season for this group. Please see OUR BAND HANDBOOK for more marching band information.
WHY SHOULD I JOIN THE GOLD BRIGADE MARCHING BAND?
1. Its Educational: There have been numerous studies that show a correlation between music and academic success. Marching band utilizes and teaches qualities such as determination, responsibility (individual and collective), problem solving, etc. that can be transferred into the classroom and real life. Through the process of practicing and performing on your instrument you are honing many skills that you will use during the school day.
2. Its Social: The friendships and bonds you create through band last for a lifetime. Ask any current or past member, many of their closest friends played in band. Bonds are strengthened through the process of working together for a unified goal creating a strong family atmosphere. For new members coming up from the middle school, band offers an opportunity to get to know friends in the high school and experience the space before the first day of school, creating a strong support network during the transition to a new building.
3. Its a Workout: Recent studies have shown that marching band is one of the most physically demanding activities students can do. When students are putting full effort into their marching and playing they are using nearly every muscle of the body from the mouth and hands (playing their instrument) to the torso and legs (marching). Much like any exercise program, you get out what you put in, if you put in 100% (which is what we expect at Warren Central) effort during every minute of rehearsal you will experience a serious workout.
4. It All-Inclusive: The band is open to anyone who is willing to put in the work. It offers opportunities for all types students to come together and perform together on equal footing. Tall, short, male, female, 8th grade, 12th grade etc, everyone contributes!
5. Its Something You Can Be Proud Of: You will work extremely hard to play your instrument, memorize your music, march with correct posture, march to the correct spot, and hold your horn correctly, often all at the same time. When everything is done you can look back on what you were able to do and you will feel very accomplished.
6. ITS FUN!!!!!!!!!!
THE WARREN CENTRAL GOLD BRIGADE MARCHING BAND IS A 2-TIME SCHOLASTIC A CLASS STATE CHAMPION!
- Stay connected with the WC Bands
- Facebook: WC Gold Brigade Marching Band | Warren Central Honors Band | Warren Central Jazz Ensemble
- Twitter: @WarrenBands | @wcjazzensemble
BAND DOCUMENTS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What is marching band?
Marching band is a group of instrumental musicians and color guard performers that coordinate movements with a musical performance, for the purpose of exercise, entertainment, and competition. The typical instrumentation includes, woodwinds, brass, percussion, and color guard. See our videos above for some great examples.
2. Why should I join?
There are several major reasons listed on the band’s website in the join the band section. But here are just a few, you make friends with everyone involved, it’s great exercise, you improve your musical ability and technique, you develop leadership skills, and a strong work ethic, you learn time management and how to problem solve, and you get to attend competitions specifically for marching bands! If these reasons don’t appeal to you, don’t forget that marching band is FUN!
3. Will I have enough time to participate?
Students in the marching band generally do very well academically and have very few problems adapting to the busy schedule. Yes, the schedule can be slightly overwhelming every once and awhile, but these are great learning experiences for the stresses of high school and adult life. With hard work and good time management skills (which you will certainly develop through participation in band) you will excel! The marching band staff and older members are always available to assist you! We are a team, everyone is important, and we all support each other.
4. I am interested in taking part in other co-curricular activities where there may be conflicts with band; can I still be in band?
Of course! We have had band students who are part of all kinds of student organizations and play sports such as soccer, cross country, and football. In an effort to give students the opportunity to enrich their education through multiple experiences, we encourage all students to take part in all activities that they are interested in (as long as they don't spread themselves too thin). It's all about the students. The band wants every student to have as many opportunities, experiences, and educational moments as possible! Mr. Meckes works closely with advisors and coaches to create a schedule that works for all involved and won't hurt the student's standing in either organization. Students must also help in the scheduling process and not just expect band staff to do it all for them.
5. Is it expensive to join?
First off, money should never be a reason not to join the band. If you are unable to meet the monetary needs of the group, please feel free to talk to a band staff member and we can certainly help. There is a fee to join the band, this is made payable to the Warren Performing Arts Association, and is used to cover the cost of competitions, amarching band T-Shirt, drill, music, uniforms, other performance supplies, and other large purchases for the band such as instruments, equipment, meals, etc. Members will also have to purchase black marching shoes through Mr. Meckes. There are also opportunities to buy Warren Central Fan Gear. All costs and order forms are available on the website and will be handed out / mailed at the Season Kick-Off & Show Reveal Meeting.
6. What if I don’t play a traditional marching band instrument?
Marching instruments include: Flute, Clarinet, Bass Clarinet, Saxophone (Alto, Tenor, & Bari), Trumpet, French Horn (Mellophone), Euphonium (Baritone), Trombone, Tuba, Battery Percussion (Snare Drum, Tenor Drums, Bass Drums), and Front Ensemble Percussion (Keyboard Percussion, Timpani, Piano (Synthesizer), Auxiliary Percussion). If you do not play one of these instruments, YOU CAN STILL JOIN. If you play a different instrument we will find you a similar instrument to learn. If you have a basic musical background (piano, choir, elementary level instrument, strings, etc.) you will be able to learn a marching percussion or pit instrument easily. If you are interested in learning some dance moves, we could also give you a flag and teach you color guard, most members have no background when they start color guard so it may be more comfortable for members that are starting with no musical background.
7. I feel like I can barely play my instrument while sitting down. Now you want me to move and play at the same time?
This is one of the most common questions. We encourage all students to give it a try! At first it may seem hard, but once you get used to marching it is as easy as walking. We have a fantastic staff at Warren Central who are willing to do everything they can to help you learn how to march. If you believe in yourself you can achieve anything! For those that have a musical background and would prefer not to march, you may be interested in playing in the front percussion ensemble.
8. How long is the marching band season?
Throughout the summer there are several "summer band" rehearsals, which are evening practices intended to gradually improve music and marching skills in order to prepare for band camp. Color Guard and Drumline will often also have sectionals throughout the summer. Finally, at the end of summer we hold band camp. We then perform at all football games and competitions throughout the fall. The season ends with the final competition of the year (in late October). There are other events after the seasons that may occur such as a special parades, and the band banquet. In the case of a marching band trip there will also be rehearsals held in advance to prepare.
9. What are practice start and end times?
START - The old phrase "To be early is to be on time and to be on time is to be late" is used frequently. The staff will start rehearsal at the designated time. Don't show up right at the start time, that is not fair to everyone else who showed up early. If you are running late for some reason it is expected that you will run and move quickly in order to show everyone else that you are putting in effort to be apart of the group. You are expected to be on the field or in your seat ready to perform at the designated start time.
PARENT TIP: Mr. Meckes is very good about dismissing the group on time, but on occasion rehearsal will run over by a few minutes. It is always a good idea to let Mr. Meckes know if your child needs to leave right away, just in case something happens and the group needs to stay a few minutes late.
10. Uniforms, How do they work?
The marching uniforms are very expensive and must last for many years. When the uniform is issued for the season (usually during August) each student will receive a responsibility form that outlines care and costs for the uniform. This form must be signed and returned to the band director before the uniform can be worn. Every time a student puts on their uniform or hangs their uniform up to put it away, they must remember that they are handling several hundred dollars worth of material. The school supplies, a hat, hat box, jacket, pants, uniform bag, rain jacket, and gauntlet to each student. Students must provide LONG BLACK socks, BLACK compression shirt (available for purchase), BLACK marching shoes (available for purchase). Color guard members are supplied with a separate uniform top and bottoms. Students cannot perform without a complete uniform. Uniforms must ALWAYS BE HUNG UP PROPERLY, after an event students often want to get home quickly and poorly hang their uniforms in the uniform closets. This destroys creases, hems, creates wrinkles, and generally decreases the life of the expensive uniform.
PARENT TIP: If possible buy extra pairs of socks and extra compression shirts just in case something gets damaged or become too dirty to wear at a game and are needed the next day for a competition.
STUDENT TIP: Mark the inside of your shoes so they are easily recognized. Also take time hanging up your uniform because time taken to retrieve missing parts in the band room or on a dark band bus is NOT FUN!
11. My Parents/Guardians are interested in volunteering, what should they do?
It takes a lot of hard work from volunteers to make the season successful. The easiest way to get involved is to attend our parent meetings. In the late summer/early fall the directors will post an online sign-up for volunteers. Some of the major opportunities for volunteering throughout the year include:
- PIT CREW MOMS AND PIT CREW DADS - These hard-working parents do much more than just ride around on a four wheeler during half time. Many show up hours before competitions and games to help load large instruments and then help students load the equipment truck. They then help transport items to and from events as well as move them around at events.
- CHAPERONES - For every 10-12 students we need an adult to help supervise. Chaperones travel with the group and stay close by in case of issues. They also help to move things in the stands, such as plumes and water. All chaperones must obtain clearances and be approved by the MSD of Warren Township, there is more information on the Gold Brigade Parent Website.
- FUNDRAISING - The band generally has one fundraiser a month. Students are not required to fundraise, but it is strongly suggested. The band has many expenses that need to be covered, especially as we begin to see the program grow.
12. I have a question, but it’s not on this list?
Feel free to contact Mr. Meckes at any time to ask any question, he is always open to talk! You can contact Mr. Meckes at [email protected] or by phone 317-532-6200 ext.4693. Parents can kind additional answers on the Gold Brigade Parent Website HERE.
1. What is marching band?
Marching band is a group of instrumental musicians and color guard performers that coordinate movements with a musical performance, for the purpose of exercise, entertainment, and competition. The typical instrumentation includes, woodwinds, brass, percussion, and color guard. See our videos above for some great examples.
2. Why should I join?
There are several major reasons listed on the band’s website in the join the band section. But here are just a few, you make friends with everyone involved, it’s great exercise, you improve your musical ability and technique, you develop leadership skills, and a strong work ethic, you learn time management and how to problem solve, and you get to attend competitions specifically for marching bands! If these reasons don’t appeal to you, don’t forget that marching band is FUN!
3. Will I have enough time to participate?
Students in the marching band generally do very well academically and have very few problems adapting to the busy schedule. Yes, the schedule can be slightly overwhelming every once and awhile, but these are great learning experiences for the stresses of high school and adult life. With hard work and good time management skills (which you will certainly develop through participation in band) you will excel! The marching band staff and older members are always available to assist you! We are a team, everyone is important, and we all support each other.
4. I am interested in taking part in other co-curricular activities where there may be conflicts with band; can I still be in band?
Of course! We have had band students who are part of all kinds of student organizations and play sports such as soccer, cross country, and football. In an effort to give students the opportunity to enrich their education through multiple experiences, we encourage all students to take part in all activities that they are interested in (as long as they don't spread themselves too thin). It's all about the students. The band wants every student to have as many opportunities, experiences, and educational moments as possible! Mr. Meckes works closely with advisors and coaches to create a schedule that works for all involved and won't hurt the student's standing in either organization. Students must also help in the scheduling process and not just expect band staff to do it all for them.
5. Is it expensive to join?
First off, money should never be a reason not to join the band. If you are unable to meet the monetary needs of the group, please feel free to talk to a band staff member and we can certainly help. There is a fee to join the band, this is made payable to the Warren Performing Arts Association, and is used to cover the cost of competitions, amarching band T-Shirt, drill, music, uniforms, other performance supplies, and other large purchases for the band such as instruments, equipment, meals, etc. Members will also have to purchase black marching shoes through Mr. Meckes. There are also opportunities to buy Warren Central Fan Gear. All costs and order forms are available on the website and will be handed out / mailed at the Season Kick-Off & Show Reveal Meeting.
6. What if I don’t play a traditional marching band instrument?
Marching instruments include: Flute, Clarinet, Bass Clarinet, Saxophone (Alto, Tenor, & Bari), Trumpet, French Horn (Mellophone), Euphonium (Baritone), Trombone, Tuba, Battery Percussion (Snare Drum, Tenor Drums, Bass Drums), and Front Ensemble Percussion (Keyboard Percussion, Timpani, Piano (Synthesizer), Auxiliary Percussion). If you do not play one of these instruments, YOU CAN STILL JOIN. If you play a different instrument we will find you a similar instrument to learn. If you have a basic musical background (piano, choir, elementary level instrument, strings, etc.) you will be able to learn a marching percussion or pit instrument easily. If you are interested in learning some dance moves, we could also give you a flag and teach you color guard, most members have no background when they start color guard so it may be more comfortable for members that are starting with no musical background.
7. I feel like I can barely play my instrument while sitting down. Now you want me to move and play at the same time?
This is one of the most common questions. We encourage all students to give it a try! At first it may seem hard, but once you get used to marching it is as easy as walking. We have a fantastic staff at Warren Central who are willing to do everything they can to help you learn how to march. If you believe in yourself you can achieve anything! For those that have a musical background and would prefer not to march, you may be interested in playing in the front percussion ensemble.
8. How long is the marching band season?
Throughout the summer there are several "summer band" rehearsals, which are evening practices intended to gradually improve music and marching skills in order to prepare for band camp. Color Guard and Drumline will often also have sectionals throughout the summer. Finally, at the end of summer we hold band camp. We then perform at all football games and competitions throughout the fall. The season ends with the final competition of the year (in late October). There are other events after the seasons that may occur such as a special parades, and the band banquet. In the case of a marching band trip there will also be rehearsals held in advance to prepare.
9. What are practice start and end times?
START - The old phrase "To be early is to be on time and to be on time is to be late" is used frequently. The staff will start rehearsal at the designated time. Don't show up right at the start time, that is not fair to everyone else who showed up early. If you are running late for some reason it is expected that you will run and move quickly in order to show everyone else that you are putting in effort to be apart of the group. You are expected to be on the field or in your seat ready to perform at the designated start time.
PARENT TIP: Mr. Meckes is very good about dismissing the group on time, but on occasion rehearsal will run over by a few minutes. It is always a good idea to let Mr. Meckes know if your child needs to leave right away, just in case something happens and the group needs to stay a few minutes late.
10. Uniforms, How do they work?
The marching uniforms are very expensive and must last for many years. When the uniform is issued for the season (usually during August) each student will receive a responsibility form that outlines care and costs for the uniform. This form must be signed and returned to the band director before the uniform can be worn. Every time a student puts on their uniform or hangs their uniform up to put it away, they must remember that they are handling several hundred dollars worth of material. The school supplies, a hat, hat box, jacket, pants, uniform bag, rain jacket, and gauntlet to each student. Students must provide LONG BLACK socks, BLACK compression shirt (available for purchase), BLACK marching shoes (available for purchase). Color guard members are supplied with a separate uniform top and bottoms. Students cannot perform without a complete uniform. Uniforms must ALWAYS BE HUNG UP PROPERLY, after an event students often want to get home quickly and poorly hang their uniforms in the uniform closets. This destroys creases, hems, creates wrinkles, and generally decreases the life of the expensive uniform.
PARENT TIP: If possible buy extra pairs of socks and extra compression shirts just in case something gets damaged or become too dirty to wear at a game and are needed the next day for a competition.
STUDENT TIP: Mark the inside of your shoes so they are easily recognized. Also take time hanging up your uniform because time taken to retrieve missing parts in the band room or on a dark band bus is NOT FUN!
11. My Parents/Guardians are interested in volunteering, what should they do?
It takes a lot of hard work from volunteers to make the season successful. The easiest way to get involved is to attend our parent meetings. In the late summer/early fall the directors will post an online sign-up for volunteers. Some of the major opportunities for volunteering throughout the year include:
- PIT CREW MOMS AND PIT CREW DADS - These hard-working parents do much more than just ride around on a four wheeler during half time. Many show up hours before competitions and games to help load large instruments and then help students load the equipment truck. They then help transport items to and from events as well as move them around at events.
- CHAPERONES - For every 10-12 students we need an adult to help supervise. Chaperones travel with the group and stay close by in case of issues. They also help to move things in the stands, such as plumes and water. All chaperones must obtain clearances and be approved by the MSD of Warren Township, there is more information on the Gold Brigade Parent Website.
- FUNDRAISING - The band generally has one fundraiser a month. Students are not required to fundraise, but it is strongly suggested. The band has many expenses that need to be covered, especially as we begin to see the program grow.
12. I have a question, but it’s not on this list?
Feel free to contact Mr. Meckes at any time to ask any question, he is always open to talk! You can contact Mr. Meckes at [email protected] or by phone 317-532-6200 ext.4693. Parents can kind additional answers on the Gold Brigade Parent Website HERE.
Curricular Concert Band Ensembles in the WCHS Performing Arts Department
Students are placed into 4 different ensembles that all meet during the school day as a class. The concert bands are all co-curricular classes and will have performances outside of the school day, both on and off the Warren Central campus. If you have questions about the WC Concert Ensembles please contact Mr. Meckes ([email protected], 317.532.6200 Ext: 4693), Ms. Holcomb ([email protected], 317.532.6200 Ext: 6271), or Ms. Gervasio ([email protected], 317.532.6200 Ext: 6272)
Honors Band - This group performs advanced levels of wind band literature of varying styles and genres. They will have 4-6 performances throughout the school year outside of the school day to enhance student learning. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in solo and ensemble events and private lessons to develop elements of musicianship. During the second semester the Honors Band will have a required evening rehearsal on Tuesdays in addition to after school sectionals. This ensemble has been named an ISSMA State Finalist numerous times in the past, placing as high as 4th in 2006.
Symphonic Band - This group performs intermediate level high school wind band literature of varying styles and genres. They will have 4-6 performances throughout the school year outside of the school day to enhance student learning. Students are encouraged to participate in solo and ensemble events and private lessons to develop elements of musicianship.
Concert Band - This group performs high school level wind band literature of varying styles and genres. They will have 4-6 performances throughout the school year outside of the school day to enhance student learning. Students are encouraged to participate in solo and ensemble events to develop elements of musicianship.
Percussion Band Class - The Percussion Class is made up all the percussionists in the WC program and performs literature of varying styles and genres. They will have numerous performances throughout the school year outside of the school day to enhance student learning. All percussionists are required to be a member of the Gold Brigade Marching Band in the fall semester and the Indoor Percussion Ensemble in the spring semester. These individuals will also be assigned to a concert ensemble for each performance. Students are encouraged to participate in solo and ensemble, honor bands, and consider taking private lessons on their instruments to develop stronger elements of musicianship. There will be a fee for each season for these groups.
Jazz Ensemble - The Jazz Ensemble is a co-curricular class that meets every day. This group performs high school level jazz band literature of varying styles and genres. They will have numerous performances throughout the school year outside of the school day to enhance student learning. Students in this ensemble will focus on specific elements of jazz music and improvisation. If you have questions about Jazz Ensemble please contact Ms. Holcomb ([email protected], 317.532.6200 Ext: 6271).
Co-Curricular Ensembles sponsored by the WCHS Performing Arts Department
Gold Brigade Marching Band
The marching band is an extra-curricular ensemble that rehearses Tuesdays and Thursdays 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm from the beginning of school to the end of the marching season. Students will meet during the summer months for some rehearsals to prepare for fall show. This group is very active in the ISSMA marching band circuit and has been recognized as both Open Class and Scholastic Class State Finalists. The marching band is made up of woodwinds, brass, percussion and color guard sections. Students in the percussion and color guard are required to try-out for their respective section. There are no auditions for the woodwind or brass sections. Students in the marching band are required to attend all rehearsals and performances. Please view the calendar for all rehearsals and performances. If you have questions about Marching Band please contact Mr. Meckes ([email protected], 317.532.6200 Ext: 4693), Ms. Holcomb ([email protected], 317.532.6200 Ext: 6271), or Ms. Gervasio ([email protected], 317.532.6200 Ext: 6272).
Pep Band
The Warren Central Pep Band is a very important part of student life at WCHS. The Pep Band is directed by WCHS Band Directors and performs at most home girls’ and boys’ basketball games. The group is part of students’ scheduled band class. All students are already a member by enrolling in any of the band classes at WCHS.
This group performs from late November until mid-March, depending on the caliber of the basketball program on any given year. In 2018, the WCHS Pep Band was honored to play for the boys and girls State Champion games, in the Indiana State Boys & Girls Championships at Banker’s Life Fieldhouse!
Warren Township Color Guard & Winter Guard
Students are placed into 4 different ensembles that all meet during the school day as a class. The concert bands are all co-curricular classes and will have performances outside of the school day, both on and off the Warren Central campus. If you have questions about the WC Concert Ensembles please contact Mr. Meckes ([email protected], 317.532.6200 Ext: 4693), Ms. Holcomb ([email protected], 317.532.6200 Ext: 6271), or Ms. Gervasio ([email protected], 317.532.6200 Ext: 6272)
Honors Band - This group performs advanced levels of wind band literature of varying styles and genres. They will have 4-6 performances throughout the school year outside of the school day to enhance student learning. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in solo and ensemble events and private lessons to develop elements of musicianship. During the second semester the Honors Band will have a required evening rehearsal on Tuesdays in addition to after school sectionals. This ensemble has been named an ISSMA State Finalist numerous times in the past, placing as high as 4th in 2006.
Symphonic Band - This group performs intermediate level high school wind band literature of varying styles and genres. They will have 4-6 performances throughout the school year outside of the school day to enhance student learning. Students are encouraged to participate in solo and ensemble events and private lessons to develop elements of musicianship.
Concert Band - This group performs high school level wind band literature of varying styles and genres. They will have 4-6 performances throughout the school year outside of the school day to enhance student learning. Students are encouraged to participate in solo and ensemble events to develop elements of musicianship.
Percussion Band Class - The Percussion Class is made up all the percussionists in the WC program and performs literature of varying styles and genres. They will have numerous performances throughout the school year outside of the school day to enhance student learning. All percussionists are required to be a member of the Gold Brigade Marching Band in the fall semester and the Indoor Percussion Ensemble in the spring semester. These individuals will also be assigned to a concert ensemble for each performance. Students are encouraged to participate in solo and ensemble, honor bands, and consider taking private lessons on their instruments to develop stronger elements of musicianship. There will be a fee for each season for these groups.
Jazz Ensemble - The Jazz Ensemble is a co-curricular class that meets every day. This group performs high school level jazz band literature of varying styles and genres. They will have numerous performances throughout the school year outside of the school day to enhance student learning. Students in this ensemble will focus on specific elements of jazz music and improvisation. If you have questions about Jazz Ensemble please contact Ms. Holcomb ([email protected], 317.532.6200 Ext: 6271).
Co-Curricular Ensembles sponsored by the WCHS Performing Arts Department
Gold Brigade Marching Band
The marching band is an extra-curricular ensemble that rehearses Tuesdays and Thursdays 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm from the beginning of school to the end of the marching season. Students will meet during the summer months for some rehearsals to prepare for fall show. This group is very active in the ISSMA marching band circuit and has been recognized as both Open Class and Scholastic Class State Finalists. The marching band is made up of woodwinds, brass, percussion and color guard sections. Students in the percussion and color guard are required to try-out for their respective section. There are no auditions for the woodwind or brass sections. Students in the marching band are required to attend all rehearsals and performances. Please view the calendar for all rehearsals and performances. If you have questions about Marching Band please contact Mr. Meckes ([email protected], 317.532.6200 Ext: 4693), Ms. Holcomb ([email protected], 317.532.6200 Ext: 6271), or Ms. Gervasio ([email protected], 317.532.6200 Ext: 6272).
Pep Band
The Warren Central Pep Band is a very important part of student life at WCHS. The Pep Band is directed by WCHS Band Directors and performs at most home girls’ and boys’ basketball games. The group is part of students’ scheduled band class. All students are already a member by enrolling in any of the band classes at WCHS.
This group performs from late November until mid-March, depending on the caliber of the basketball program on any given year. In 2018, the WCHS Pep Band was honored to play for the boys and girls State Champion games, in the Indiana State Boys & Girls Championships at Banker’s Life Fieldhouse!
Warren Township Color Guard & Winter Guard
Fun Band Videos
2017
The first Operation Football video of the year! Congratulations to the Gold Brigade on this honor. Click HERE to view the performance.
2016
The Gold Brigade kicked off this year's season of The Zone on Wish-TV 8. Click HERE to view their performance.
The Gold Brigade was featured as the Band of the Week during the first round of football sectionals. Click HERE to view their performance.
Members of the marching band were featured on WishTV's Daybreak on Friday, September 11th. Click HERE to view their performance.
The Gold Brigade Marching Band was the feature "Band of the Week" on WTHR Channel 13 at the first home football game of the 2015 season. Click HERE to view their performance.
2017
The first Operation Football video of the year! Congratulations to the Gold Brigade on this honor. Click HERE to view the performance.
2016
The Gold Brigade kicked off this year's season of The Zone on Wish-TV 8. Click HERE to view their performance.
The Gold Brigade was featured as the Band of the Week during the first round of football sectionals. Click HERE to view their performance.
Members of the marching band were featured on WishTV's Daybreak on Friday, September 11th. Click HERE to view their performance.
The Gold Brigade Marching Band was the feature "Band of the Week" on WTHR Channel 13 at the first home football game of the 2015 season. Click HERE to view their performance.