The LCHS Instrumental Music Program provides opportunities for student musicians at all levels of proficiency to make music in a friendly and supportive environment. Under the direction of Jason Stone, 9-12 and 7/8 students can take classes in marching band, concert band, string orchestra, and color guard, or participate in extra-curricular jazz band and winter drumline. Opportunities exist to form chamber quartets for special performances.
The LCHS Music Parents Association (MPA) provides fundraising and volunteer support to the program. Numerous opportunities exist to become involved in the program from helping to plume and gauntlet marching band members before performances to chaperoning competitions, from decorating for concerts to fitting concert wear. A significant part of the annual budget for the Instrumental Music Program comes from the MPA; therefore, our fundraising events are critical. They include the ongoing Gift Card sales and Amazon Smile. The biggest fundraiser is the annual Night of Music Benefit Concert featuring performances from all our ensembles, a silent auction, raffle, and the Speakeasy After Party featuring the Jazz Band. Funds raised by the MPA are used to hire coaches aka “techs” and staff, pay for music, cover competition fees, provide logistical support, and upgrade musical instruments and equipment. The MPA also provides scholarships so that no student is excluded from participating based on financial needs.
It takes a village to have a successful public high school music program — but the rewards are great! The faculty, staff, students, and parents are a community, sharing friendship and a love of music. If you would like to become more involved, please contact Mr. Stone, Ms. Munday, Ms. Svetich, or any of the Board Members.