ENSEMBLES
BEGINNING BAND
The Saeger Beginning Band is divided into specialized classes for the purpose of teaching the basic fundamentals of playing an instrument. Instruments taught at the beginning band level are flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, baritone, and percussion. Students will complete musical and rehearsal objectives in preparation for advancement to 7th Grade Band. Students in the Beginning Band come together for two concerts during the school year. There is one required after-school rehearsal prior to each concert.
A student in Beginning Band should always keep in mind that this is a preparatory course designed to prepare him/her for participation in the Spartan Bands performing ensembles over the next six years.
7th AND 8th GRADE BANDS
The Saeger 7th and 8th Grade Bands are concert bands comprised of students who have completed the Beginning Band basic guidelines for advancement. These students have shown a high level of dedication, ability, and achievement in the band classroom. Students in these bands participate in the St. Louis Metro District #8 Honor Band auditions and are eligible for extracurricular ensembles like the Spartan Community Band, Saeger Jazz Band, and Saeger Spartan Pep Band. These bands also present two concerts during the school year.
JAZZ BAND & JAZZ WORKSHOP
Students who have completed a year of Beginning Band are eligible to audition for the following school year’s jazz ensembles. Audition material and information is given out in the spring semester and auditions take place at the beginning of the school year to place ensemble members. Students who are placed in the Jazz Band and Jazz Workshop will receive rehearsal and performance schedules for that group. Each ensemble performs in three (or more) concerts throughout the school year and various other events as the opportunities arise.
COMMUNITY BAND
The Spartan Community Band is open to members of the 7th Grade Band and 8th Grade Band, Saeger Band alumni, FHC Band students, Saeger staff members, and community members. Members attend five rehearsals throughout January, February, and March and perform in a concert in March to celebrate Music in Our Schools Month.
SAEGER SPARTAN PEP BAND
The Saeger Spartan Pep Band is an extra-curricular ensemble for students in 7th or 8th Grade Band. The band will prepare a variety of popular music for performance at school assemblies and events throughout the year. In order to be participate in the Pep Band, students must remain enrolled in 7th or 8th Grade Band, actively participate in all scheduled rehearsals and events, and remain in good standing at Saeger and within the band program.