Some students join band as accomplished players, while others are just beginning to learn their instrument; our band program offers opportunities for everyone!
Whether playing a jazz set at a local restaurant or competing in front of thousands in college stadiums, our award-winning bands perform with passion and precision—receiving praise from adjudicators and audiences alike.
At its core, band is about playing and appreciating music, but we are also strengthening critical skills that accompany students throughout their lives: confidence, cooperation, accountability, and leadership. This is the very inspiration of our band program’s mission: to assist students in achieving their potential for greatness through the highest standards of performance and character.
Marching Eagles
The Marching Eagles is St. Edward’s premier competitive band, performing locally and nationally. A consistent OMEA state finalist, the group earned its 18th superior rating in 2024 and competes at BOA regional championships. Made up of students from St. Edward, Saint Joseph Academy, and Magnificat, the band performs at football games and major competitions, featuring a corps-style percussion section and color guard.
Symphonic Band
Bringing the excellence of marching band indoors for the spring semester, the Symphonic Band performs a comprehensive repertoire. The ensemble achieves high standards of technical and expressive performance, consistently earning superior ratings at OMEA contests and performing at prestigious venues, including Severance Hall.
Concert Band
Concert Band is a full-year course that studies the fundamentals of playing wind and percussion instruments and is recommended for incoming freshmen or others who wish to participate in the band program. Students work towards chamber music performances throughout the year, namely at OMEA Solo and Ensemble Contest in late January or February. In addition to performance concepts, students learn music theory in depth.
Jazz Ensemble
From swing and samba to blues and funk, The Jazz Ensemble offers a unique opportunity to study diverse sounds from around the world. This elite group performs in more intimate environments, ranging from fundraising events, shows at The Bop Stop, and local grade schools.
Pep Band
The Pep Band performs at varsity basketball games over the course of the winter. It is open to any Marching Eagle who wants to keep their skills sharp and jazz up the gymnasium crowd.