Middle School Band
6th Grade Bands
The 6th Grade Bands serve as the beginning ensembles of the Bixby Public Schools Band Program. Representing all intermediate sites across the district, more than 275 students begin their musical journey each year through this foundational experience.
Instruction focuses on establishing strong fundamentals, including proper posture, tone production, music reading, rhythmic accuracy, and basic ensemble skills. Students also learn the values of teamwork, responsibility, and consistent practice habits that are central to long-term success in band.
Throughout the year, students prepare and perform their first concert literature, gaining confidence and pride in their progress. The 6th Grade Bands perform each semester at Bixby Middle School concerts, marking the exciting start of their journey in the Bixby Band Program.
7th Grade Bands
The 7th Grade Bands build upon the strong foundation established in 6th grade and represent an important step in the developmental sequence of the Bixby Band Program. To best serve our growing program, Bixby offers two 7th Grade Bands, allowing for balanced instrumentation and focused instruction.
Students continue refining fundamental skills, including tone production, technique, rhythmic accuracy, range development, and ensemble awareness. Rehearsals emphasize musical independence, listening skills, and expressive performance while preparing students for the increased expectations of upper middle school and high school ensembles.
In addition to concert performances at Bixby Middle School, 7th grade students are encouraged to audition for the GCBDA All-Region Honor Band and may choose to prepare a solo or small ensemble for the district Solo & Ensemble Festival. The 7th grade bands also get to perform at the Bixby Fine Arts Fair in Downtown Bixby in May!! These opportunities further support individual growth and musical achievement.
8th Grade Bands
The 8th Grade Bands are the premier performing ensembles at Bixby Middle School and represent the highest level of middle school achievement within the Bixby Band Program. To serve our growing program, Bixby offers two 8th grade ensembles: the 8th Grade Wind Ensemble and the 8th Grade Symphonic Band, providing balanced instrumentation and focused instruction for all members.
Students continue refining advanced fundamentals, expanding technical facility and range, and developing mature ensemble balance and musical expression. Many members earn placement in the GCBDA All-Region Honor Band each fall and consistently receive superior ratings at the district Solo & Ensemble Festival, whether performing as part of a large ensemble, small ensemble, or soloist.
The 8th Grade Bands perform at the Bixby Middle School Veterans Assembly, the annual trip to Silver Dollar City, and at middle school band concerts throughout the year. These performance opportunities allow students to showcase their growth, demonstrate leadership, and proudly represent Bixby Middle School and the Bixby Band Program.
Events
- All-Region Band Auditions (GCBDA)
- MS: Middle School Band Concert Whitey Ford Gym
- Solo and Ensembles at Bixby High School
- MS/HS: All District Workshop (GCBDA)
- MS: Mid-Winter 7/8 Concert
- MS: Middle School Band Concert
- Bixby Fine Arts Fair
- MS: Branson Silver Dollar City Trip:
Please visit the Bixby Band Calendar, email your instructor, check with your student and check REMIND texts.
Forms
Equipment & Attire
Concert Attire:
- Concert Black. Refer to the MS Band Handbook for further details.
Woodwinds and Brass Equipment Needed:
- Instrument
- Book ( Foundations for Superior Performance)
- Black 3 Ring Binder with a Clear Sheet Cover and 10 Page Protectors
Percussion Equipment Needed: