Freedom’s band program exists to help develop the musical gifts God has entrusted to students, as well as teach them how to use those gifts to glorify God with excellence. We offer 3 levels of band classes which meet every day during the instructional day.
Beginning band is offered as an elective to grade 5 students. Students learn the basics of playing a woodwind or brass instrument and literacy in musical notation. They perform at school fine arts nights twice a year.
Intermediate band is offered to students in grades 6-8 who have at least one year of experience reading musical notation and playing a woodwind, brass, or concert percussion instrument. Students are introduced to more expressive elements in music-making, continue to improve their musical literacy, explore various styles of music, and become more proficient on their instrument.
Symphonic band is comprised of high school musicians, as well as grade 8 students who are able to audition into the group. These students play more challenging music, are instructed in music theory, and develop strong ensemble skills. They engage as a family of students and musicians and as they all fulfill their role musically, they are a great representation of the body of Christ!
All bands perform Christmas and spring concerts. Intermediate band students and higher may participate in Patriot Pep Band during basketball season and the Swinging Patriots Jazz Band. Students in intermediate and symphonic bands have the opportunity to compete as individuals for All-District Band and as individuals and small ensembles in our district’s Solo and Ensemble Festival. Our intermediate and symphonic bands also participate in the ACSI Fine Arts Festival and have enjoyed team-building trips to Music In The Parks at Busch Gardens, Carowinds Music Festival, and Festival Disney, where they compete and perform for a rating. These groups also perform at community events such as the Hope Mills Christmas parade and playing the national anthem at a hockey game.
Freedom has had many students involved in All-District and All-State Band, Solo and Ensemble. Intermediate and Symphonic Bands have both received superior ratings at the ACSI Fine Arts Festival.