Wheeler Band Information
If you are a parent/guardian or student wondering about joining band, below are answers to a few questions you might have. If you have additional questions, please feel free to email the Directors at jason.frey@cobbk12.org or mia.jordan@cobbk12.org or or contact the Wheeler Band Booster Club (WBBC) Co-Presidents at president@wheelerbands.org
Top 12 Reasons to Join Wheeler Band - More Than Just Music - Click HERE to find out!
Most Frequently Asked Questions about Wheeler Band - Coming Soon!
Fundraising is a large part of our annual budget, and fees are subsidized for every single student. There are opportunities for students to participate and raise additional funds for their personal band account to cover fees and trip costs. Additionally, Financial Assistance may be available for those experiencing financial hardships.
Band Classes
Band Classes are taken during the school day as an elective in your academic schedule. These classes are the foundation and centerpiece of the band program. The focus of these groups is development of skills with emphasis on fundamentals. These groups will participate in all concerts and LGPE (Large Group Performance Evaluation).
At Wheeler, there are 3 Band Classes: Concert Band, Symphonic Band, and Wind Ensemble. Placement is determined by audition.
How do I sign up for band class and are there fees associated with band classes?
Registration opens in Spring each year. Visit wheelerbands.org and follow the Register for 2025-2026 link on the Home Page! Online registration is required for ALL band members as well as a $100 deposit fee which is due either May 21st (Marching Band and Color Guard) or August 21st (Class Band only).
Co-Curricular Activities and Ensembles
Marching Band
Marching Band is a co-curricular activity and the largest performing group at Wheeler. It consists of woodwinds, brass, percussion and color guard. The Marching Band performs at varsity football games, competitions and parades. Marching band season is from mid-July to the last football game which is usually the first weekend in November. You don't have to march to take band, although it's highly encouraged for many reasons, but you must take a band class in order to march unless you are in Color Guard. More information about our marching band can be found below.
Percussion Ensemble
The Percussion Ensemble rehearses in late Fall through Spring and performs at the Percussion Symposium, Night of Percussion Concert, and conferences such as GMEA and PASIC. The ensemble is open to all percussionists.
Color Guard
The Color Guard is considered a part of the Marching Band and performs with the Marching Band throughout the Fall.
Jazz Band
The Jazz Band conductor led ensemble that meets after school during 2nd semester. The Jazz Band performs at the Spring Concert. Jazz Band members have the opportunity to audition for Jazz All-State Band and District Honor Jazz Band.
Chamber Groups
There are various student led chamber groups in the Wheeler Band. A chamber group is a small ensemble of musicians, typically consisting of a few players per instrument part, performing music specifically written for a smaller group, often with a more intimate and focused sound compared to the full band, and without a conductor. Wheeler Chamber groups perform at the Winter Concert and Spring Concert.
Additional Marching Band Information
How Much Does Marching Band Cost?
The 2025-26 Marching Band fee is $850.
A $100 deposit is due with registration for Marching Band and Color Guard, by May 21st to secure your marching spot - registration opened on April 29, 2025.
The remainder of the marching band fees can be paid in a single payment or spread across multiple months.
The 2025-26 Class Band fees is $200 for the year and Registration and a deposit are due by August 21st.
What’s the Summer Schedule?
Tentatively:
May 10th 10am - 3pm, Spring Marcher Camp with Show Announcement
May 10th 1:45 - 3pml, Mandatory Parent/Guardian Registration Meeting
June Ad hoc Percussion and Guard rehearsals
July 9-11 Leadership/Guard/Percussion Pre-Camp
July 13th Band Social
July 14-18 Band Camp 9am-5pm
July 21-25 Band Camp 9am-9pm
July 29 & 31 Afternoon rehearsal 4pm-7:30pm
August 4th First day of School
I don’t play a marching instrument, can I still be in the Marching Band?
Absolutely! We have many students who play a non-marching instrument in the classroom and transfer that skill-set to the field! Additionally, the Wheeler Band has an exceptional color guard. Many of our Guard members have a background in Dance, Theater and Orchestra - no experience necessary, our instructors can teach you!
What’s a Typical “Week in the Life” During Marching Season?
Attendance at all rehearsals and performances is expected from every member! Excused absences must be approved by a director.
August - early November
Tuesdays 4:00-7:30pm Practice
Thursdays 4:00-7:30pm Practice
Fridays 4:00pm Call Time for Football Games
Some Saturdays in September/October/early November we will have Saturday Practice or Competition
