Wind Ensemble

At the end of the marching season (late October/early November), the Marching Band splits into two upper level concert bands in order to accommodate all students of varying ability and interest levels.  The Wind Ensemble prepares advanced literature and performs at several concerts throughout the year, including the Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) State Large Group Festival. 

Symphonic Band

At the end of the marching season (late October/early November), the Marching Band splits into two upper level concert bands in order to accommodate all students of varying ability and interest levels.  Symphonic Band prepares intermediate to advanced literature and performs at several concerts throughout the year, including KSHSAA State Large Group Festival

Concert Band

Concert Band is a non-auditioned and non-marching performing ensemble open to all students grade 9-12.  Concert Band prepares intermediate literature and has a strong focus on music fundamentals.  Concert Band performs at several concerts throughout the year, including an adjudicated festival in the spring.

Jazz Band

Jazz Band rehearses during one hour of the school day.  Students in jazz band will prepare a variety of jazz literature including combo charts, modern arrangements, and jazz standards.  Jazz Band performs frequently throughout the year and performs at several Jazz Festivals. Students must be enrolled in Marching Band, Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, or Concert Band to enroll in Jazz Band.

Pep Band

The Olathe West Pep Band performs at all Girls & Boys Varsity Basketball home games.  This is a volunteer ensemble where ALL band members are welcome. Put your game-face on, come play some great tunes, earn lettering points toward your varsity letter, and cheer loud for the Owls!

Pit Orchestra

Band students have the opportunity to participate in the Pit Orchestra, which performs the instrumental music for the musical.  Each year’s musical requires a different instrumentation, but normally every instrument family may participate in some capacity.  Students will be selected on a basis of grade-level, musicianship and music ability, schedule availability, teachability, and professionalism. 

Solos/Small Ensembles

On top of all of the other available musical options listed previously in the handbook, students have the opportunity to participate in the KSHSAA Solo & Small Ensemble Festivals each year.  Students who earn a “I - Outstanding” rating at the Regional Festival will move on to perform in the State Festival.  This is a great way to prepare solo literature, or work on musical goals with your friends. 

Honor Bands

All band students from Olathe West are encouraged to audition for Honor Bands such as the John Phillip Sousa Honor Band, East Central Kansas Music Educator’s Association (ECKMEA) District Band, Kansas Music Educator’s Association (KMEA) All-State Band, Music for All (MFA) Honor Bands, and many more.  In addition to earning Lettering points, students that audition and participate in these ensembles have fantastic musical experiences and enriching opportunities. Please communicate with Ms. Lowman and/or Mr. Wickersham for more information.