The Downingtown West Instrumental Music Program
CONCERT BAND Grades 9-12
This organization will consist of band members functioning together as both a concert and marching band as determined by their performance schedules. Membership is open to all instrumentalists who have successfully completed their required audition. All members are required to perform in all scheduled concerts, parades, football games, adjudications, exchange programs and other special events. In addition to the regularly scheduled band periods, assessment / instruction, on a rotating basis, is required for each band member. During the marching seasons, additional rehearsals are required on an after-school OR evening basis. This organization will include a $100 required District Activity Fee to be applied to all Marching Band students. There may be additional fees which will be communicated to students prior to course selection.
SYMPHONIC BAND Grades 10-12
This organization will consist of band members functioning together as both a symphonic band and marching band as determined by their performance schedules. Members are selected on the basis of the results of the required band audition with consideration being given to the need for a balanced instrumentation. All members are required to perform in all scheduled concerts, parades, football games, adjudications, exchange programs and other special events. In addition to the regularly scheduled band periods, assessment / instruction, on a rotating basis, is required for each band member. During the marching seasons, additional rehearsals are required on an after-school OR evening basis. This organization will include a $100 required District Activity Fee to be applied to all Marching Band students. There may be additional fees which will be communicated to students prior to course selection.
INSTRUMENTAL ENSEMBLE Grades 9-12
This course focuses on the individual development of instrumental technique within an intensified instructional program. While the ensemble itself does not maintain a separate performance schedule, it functions as a support and extension of the DHS Concert/Symphonic and Marching Bands.
Students are personally responsible for maintaining their performance readiness and are expected to actively participate both in class and in the community—through solo and small ensemble performances. Enrollment in this course requires concurrent participation in either the Blue & Gold Concert and Marching Band or the Blue & Gold Symphonic and Marching Band. Students are expected to manage their time, practice consistently, and uphold the performance standards of the full band programs.
JAZZ BAND Grades 9-12
The DWest Jazz Ensemble is an extracurricular performing group dedicated to exploring a wide range of jazz styles, all within the framework of traditional Big Band instrumentation. This ensemble offers students a unique opportunity to expand their musical horizons while performing challenging and exciting repertoire.
Membership in the Jazz Ensemble is by audition or invitation only, and placement is based on musical ability, style, and commitment. Because this is considered an advanced-level group, all members must be enrolled in Band during the school day—no exceptions. This ensures that all students continue developing their fundamental skills while contributing at a high level in the jazz setting.
The ensemble performs at two major concerts during the school year and concludes the season with a mini tour, offering students valuable performance experience beyond the classroom.
Participation in the Jazz Ensemble is both a privilege and a responsibility. Students selected are expected to maintain a strong level of preparation, dedication, and musicianship throughout the season.
Downingtown Indoor Guard Grades 9-12
A Nationally Recognized Ensemble
The DWest Indoor Color Guard is a an extracurricular / dynamic and high-energy performance ensemble that blends the artistry of dance with the precision of equipment work, including flags, sabers, mock rifles, and other visual elements. Through expressive movement and synchronized choreography, members bring music to life in a way that captivates audiences and tells a powerful visual story.
This extracurricular group is more than just an extension of the outdoor fall color guard—it is a nationally recognized ensemble that competes at the highest levels in local, regional, and national circuits. Participation in this group not only strengthens performance skills but also builds confidence, teamwork, and discipline.
While many members come from the outdoor fall Color Guard, the Indoor Color Guard is open to all students at DWest High School who are eager to learn, perform, and be part of a close-knit and passionate team. Whether you have prior experience or are brand new to Color Guard, we encourage you to audition and see where your potential can take you.
Become part of something exciting, challenging, and truly rewarding—join the DWest Indoor Color Guard and perform on a stage where your talents can shine across the country.
INDOOR PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE Grades 9-12
The Indoor Percussion Ensemble is an extracurricular, audition-based ensemble that competes at the regional, state, national, and international levels. Its instrumentation includes traditional marching battery percussion (snares, quads, bass drums, and cymbals) as well as melodic front ensemble percussion.
All members must be enrolled in a band class during the school day—no exceptions. In order to participate, all percussionists must be in good standing within the band program. This includes students whose primary instrument is a woodwind or brass instrument but who audition for and earn a spot in the indoor percussion ensemble. These students must be exemplary members of the Symphonic Band, consistently demonstrating strong musicianship, a positive attitude, and thorough preparation of concert band music.
Because this is an extracurricular activity, members are expected to adhere to the same standards and expectations as athletic teams. Every participant must represent the highest standard of dedication and musicianship on their primary instrument in the band class as well as in all other courses on his or her schedule.