Welcome

We are excited to have you join one of the most active, rewarding, inclusive, & successful organizations at Grassfield–the Grassfield Band.  In our program, there are opportunities for every student to improve as musicians, grow as leaders, & create memories that will last a lifetime.  Be it 9th Grade Band, Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, Marching Band, Color Guard, Jazz Band, Winter Guard, or Winter Percussion–there is something for everyone.

Music education is more than just playing an instrument. It is immersing in a culture of successful students and teachers who care about education. It challenges each student to use the creative side of their brain while, at the same time, learning a foreign language…MUSIC.  All of the current data clearly states that students involved in music education academically outperform their non-musical counterparts. 

Every destination starts with a decision to embark on a journey. Now is the time to start yours & the Grassfield Band is the place to do it. ​We look forward to meeting everyone on March 25th at 6:30pm at the 2025 Band Information Meeting. ​Please feel free to reach out to us with any questions you may have!

Musically Yours,

Mr. Keith Dublin & Mr. Luke Walker
​Band Directors


Classes

​At Grassfield, we believe that a strong foundation begins in the classroom. All students participating in our co-curricular ensembles, such as Marching Band, Jazz Band, Winter Guard, or Winter Percussion, are required to enroll in a band class during the school day. These classes provide the essential training, musical growth, and collaboration skills that fuel success in our program. With a variety of band classes tailored to different skill levels and interests, there’s a perfect place for every student to thrive and grow as a musician. Let’s explore the options available for you!
​Band Classes
  • Band 9:  All rising 9th grade students will be placed in Band 9.  Classes are separated by instrument (Woodwind, Brass, Percussion).  Students continue learning specific instrument techniques, music theory, & perform VBODA Grade 3-4 music.  The 9th Grade Band performs 4 concerts per year.
  • Symphonic Band:  Students in grades 10-12 are enrolled in Symphonic Band.   The Symphonic Band is split into 2 classes based on instrument (Woodwinds, Brass).  Students continue learning specific instrument techniques, music theory, & perform VBODA Grade 4-5 music.  The Symphonic Band performs 4 concerts per year.
  • Percussion Ensemble:  Percussionists in grades 10-12 are automatically placed in Percussion Ensemble.  Students learn specific techniques on all percussion instruments (drum, mallet, auxiliary)
  • Wind Ensemble:  The Wind Ensemble is the premier performance ensemble at Grassfield High School.  Students continue learning specific instrument techniques, music theory, & perform VBODA Grade 5-6 music.  Students in grades 10-12 are eligible to audition for the Wind Ensemble.  Membership is determined by the passing of the audition & recommendation of the Band Directors.
Additional Music Courses
  • Music Theory:  Students learn about notation, scales, chords, harmony, and composition while developing critical listening and analytical skills. This course is perfect for students looking to enhance their musicianship and prepare for advanced musical studies or performance opportunities.
  • AP Music Theory:  AP Music Theory is an advanced course designed to deepen students’ understanding of music structure and composition while preparing them for the AP exam. Students explore complex topics such as harmonic analysis, counterpoint, and aural skills, including sight-singing and melodic dictation. Ideal for serious music students, this course provides a strong foundation for college-level music studies.  

​Cocurricular Ensembles

​Our cocurricular band ensembles offer students exciting opportunities to explore their musical and performance talents beyond the classroom. The award-winning Marching Band competes at the local, regional, and national levels, including on the prestigious Bands of America Circuit, with past performances in renowned venues like the Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta. The Jazz Band showcases its talents at various local events and venues, bringing vibrant music to our community. The Winter Guard, a highly competitive ensemble, has a proud history of competing nationally and regionally, including being finalists in the WGI World Guard Championships. Our Indoor Percussion Ensemble, a World Champion in 2024, is a premier competitive group performing at the highest levels locally, regionally, and nationally. Eligibility for these ensembles requires enrollment in a performing arts class at Grassfield High School, with the exception of the Color Guard, which is open to any student enrolled at Grassfield High School. Together, these ensembles create a dynamic and inclusive program that fosters artistry, teamwork, and excellence.

Marching Grizzlies 

The Marching Grizzlies are one of the largest and most successful organizations at Grassfield High School, excelling in performance and competition at local, regional, and national levels. They are a 12-time Virginia Honor Band, Grand Champions at numerous local and regional competitions in the Independent and Virginia Marching Band Cooperative circuits, and Finalists at Bands of America (BOA) Regionals and Super Regionals. Their members are not only talented musicians but also diverse, participating in sports like swim, dive, soccer, track, wrestling, softball, and baseball, as well as extracurriculars such as STEM, SCA, Art, Debate, DECA, Environmental Club, FBLA, FCA, Forensics, GSA, NHS, Mu Alpha Theta, Scholastic Bowl, TSA, NJROTC, and Scouting. The Marching Grizzlies have been recognized as Homecoming King and Queen, Honor Graduates, Salutatorians, scholarship recipients, and Eagle Scouts. Open to all students at Grassfield High School, the ensemble welcomes brass and woodwind players enrolled in band classes, percussionists enrolled in band or orchestra classes, and Color Guard members who pass auditions in May. There's a place for everyone in the Marching Grizzlies!
*All prospective members should attend the 2025 Interest Meeting on March 25th at 6:30pm.  The join deadline for the 2025-2026 Marching Grizzlies is May 1st, 2025.

Jazz Ensemble

​The Grassfield High School Jazz Ensemble is a dynamic and talented group of student musicians dedicated to exploring the rich traditions and vibrant sounds of jazz. From classic swing and big band standards to modern funk, blues, and Latin styles, the ensemble delivers energetic and engaging performances that showcase creativity, collaboration, and musical excellence. Open to students of all skill levels, the group fosters a supportive environment where members can grow as individual performers and as a cohesive ensemble. The Jazz Ensemble performs at school concerts, community events, and local festivals, bringing the timeless spirit of jazz to life for audiences of all ages.  Membership in the Jazz Ensemble is open to all students via audition, with auditions being held in November of each year.

Winter Guard

The Grassfield High School Winter Guard is a highly skilled and dedicated performance ensemble that combines dance, theatrical movement, and equipment work to create captivating visual productions. Competing in both Atlantic Indoor Association (AIA) and Winter Guard International (WGI) circuits, the group rehearses 3-4 times per week to prepare for 5-6 local, regional, and national competitions each season. Known for their excellence and artistry, the Grassfield Winter Guard has a proud history of success, including making WGI World Championship Finals in 2018, 2019, and 2021. Eligibility is open to all Grassfield High School students who can pass an audition, though it is highly recommended that students participate in the Marching Band, as many of the foundational skills needed for success are taught there. Auditions are held each November, with the competitive season running from November through April. The team fosters a supportive and inclusive environment, encouraging performers to grow as individuals and as a cohesive unit while delivering powerful and memorable performances.

Indoor Percussion Ensemble

​The Grassfield High School Indoor Percussion Ensemble is a nationally recognized performance group that combines advanced percussion techniques with theatrical storytelling to create powerful and engaging productions. Competing in both the Atlantic Indoor Association (AIA) and Winter Guard International (WGI) circuits, the ensemble has earned a reputation for excellence, winning back-to-back AIA Championships in 2022 and 2023, securing 3rd place at the WGI World Championships in 2023, and achieving the prestigious title of WGI World Champions in 2024. The ensemble rehearses three times per week, providing a focused and high-energy environment for students to develop as musicians and performers. Participation is open to all Grassfield High School students through auditions held each November, with the season running from November through April. However, it is highly recommended that students participate in a percussion class, as it provides essential skills necessary for success in the ensemble.

​Communication & upcoming Information

 '2025 Band Information  Meeting
Date:  Tuesday, March 25th, 2025
Time:  6:30pm
Location:  Grassfield High School Auditorium

Information regarding class schedules & the Marching Grizzlies will be shared.  It is highly recommended that all prospective Marching Grizzlies attend this meeting.  

Communication
Band Directors:  [email protected] 
​Grassfield Band Parents Association: [email protected]