ML-560

BAND

Welcome! The Martin Luther Instrumental Department comprises three large and four small ensembles: Brass Choir, Jazz Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, and Woodwind Choir.
 
Spartan Band

Spartan Band is a beginning band course that teaches the basics of a brass or woodwind instrument and music theory. No previous music class is needed! The Spartan Band plays for the annual concerts in the winter and spring.

Varsity Band

Varsity Band is a performance course that utilizes previous training in instrumental music to present the classical and popular works in the band repertoire. Band fundamentals and techniques are studied for continued self-improvement. A sense of musicianship and artistic expression is developed through the preparation and performance of concert music. The Varsity Band plays for school athletic events, performs in annual concerts, and participates in contests and festivals.

Symphonic Band

Symphonic Band is a similar course to Varsity Band, but it operates at a higher musical level. This group also goes on the annual tour in the spring. 

Congratulations to all of the band students who auditioned this spring. I enjoyed hearing your auditions and look forward to making music next school year! Much thought went into your band placement for your individual needs as a growing musician. If you have any questions, please feel free to email me. DOWNLOAD ROSTER

Pep Band

All Martin Luther instrumentalists are involved in the Martin Luther Pep Band! We play for all varsity home football games, women's basketball games, men's basketball games, and school pep rallies! Participation in the pep band earns students their music letter. Students must participate in 75% of all pep band events to earn a letter! Join the ROWDY BUNCH!

Brass Choir

The Brass Choir plays in the school's chapel services, annual concerts, and on tour. Its primary function over the years has been participating in worship services at area Lutheran congregations.

Jazz Ensemble

The Jazz Ensemble is a rockin' and swingin' group that plays on campus for open houses, before school in the lobby, and at the Dinner Theatre. In the community, you can hear the Jazz Ensemble as live entertainment at nursing homes, local grade schools, and church events.

Woodwind Ensemble

The Woodwind Ensemble is an extracurricular group that performs music from various genres and musical periods. It performs at annual concerts and competes in the WSMA district and state music festivals. Mrs. Angela Scaffidi directs the Woodwind Ensemble. 

Percussion Ensemble

The Percussion Ensemble group plays cadences at athletic events, traditional percussion music, and even African Drums. Mrs. Jessica Kindschi Walter directs the Percussion Ensemble.

Solo Ensemble
The WSMA Solo & Ensemble Contest is a music festival that allows students to prepare, perform, and reflect as soloists or group members. WSMA is proud to partner with more than 3,500 music teachers and school administrators to educate more than 200,000 students who annually participate in WSMA activities. Band students participate annually with solos and ensembles at WSMA District and State Music Festivals. In 2023, the ML Woodwind Ensemble earned a perfect score at both WSMA District and State Music Festivals and received the WSMA Exemplary Performance Award.
 
All students are encouraged to consider preparing a solo or small group piece. This is a wonderful opportunity to grow as a musician!
 
Elementary Band 
The Lutheran High School Association of Greater Milwaukee runs the elementary band program. A variety of instrumental directors educate the band students from our association schools. Each student receives one weekly lesson and participates in a school band rehearsal. Participation in the Martin Luther High School Kadet Band is also included. This group (6-8 graders) meets Monday evenings from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. The beginner band students start their band experience in January. Mrs. Jessica Kindschi Walter, Mr. Nick Scaffidi, and Mrs. Angela Scaffidi direct the Kadet and Beginner Bands.
 
2024-25 Kadet Band Schedule