Jazz Band
The Sanderson High School Jazz Band kicks off each year in November, welcoming all band members to join and explore the world of jazz music. Prior to Winter Break, the Jazz Band meets once a week after school from 2:30-4pm. Practices ramp up to twice a week starting in January. The band performs a diverse range of jazz selections, providing students with opportunities to hone their skills while having fun. Throughout the year, the Jazz Band hopes to perform in the community, sharing their love of music with audiences beyond the school. Interested students should speak with Mr. Townley about any specific instrumentation needs.
The UNC-Greensboro Carolina Band Festival and Conductors Conference is a unique opportunity to join some of the best high school band students from across NC and neighboring states in a weekend of intense learning and musical camaraderie. Alongside nearly 200 talented HS musicians, students will have the opportunity to learn from and rehearse with nationally and internationally renowned guest clinicians in addition to UNCG faculty and staff. Students who audition, gain acceptance, and attend the 3 day conference will earn 10 points towards their band letter.
Conference Dates: February 13-15, 2025 & Audition Submission Deadline: January 9, 2025
All District
The East Central District of NC Bandmasters Association hosts an All District Band Clinic. The All District Band is made up of top-level musicians from across the North Carolina East Central District who have passed the audition and earned the right to be recognized as the best. Students in the top chairs of their instrument will be invited to audition for the All State Band. Registration is in December and auditions and clinic dates will be in January. Students sign up through Mr. Townley and the Booster organization pays the registration fee.
Student Leadership Roles
Band Student Data Reporting
Band Students: Complete the Data Form below to prepare for the Band Awards Banquet.
Seniors - After Graduation Plans
SENIORS: Complete the “After Graduation Plans” Form below by Friday, May 20th to prepare for the Band Awards Banquet
Band Letters - Activity Points
Activity Points are listed below for reference.
The 2020-2021 file has the special programs in place for Winter/Spring 2021 due to COVID.
Tom Krier Scholarship
Applications for the Tom Krier Scholarship are due by Monday, April 28, 2025 at 9:00 PM.
Upload the application to your Google Drive Folder.
Specific dates and time for scholarship interviews will be set closer to the application due date. However, the interviews will be scheduled between Thursday May 1, 2025 and Friday May 9, 2025.
Questions? Contact Mr. Townley (mjtownley@wcpss.net)
All of our students have worked hard as they were challenged with difficult music, interacted with other students, and represented Sanderson in the community at large. Several students went above and beyond and will be recognized at our Spring Banquet. The following awards will be presented:
Arion Award
The Arion Foundation was established in 1948 to give national recognition to junior class members chosen by their school for outstanding achievement. Qualifications include individual’s contribution to the band, performing ability, scholastic standing and personal integrity. The person will be permanently recognized on school’s wall plaque.
Director’s Award
Given nationally to honor outstanding band students. Chosen by the director and given to a senior who has shown dedication, discipline and leadership.
National School Marching Award
This award honors the musical contributions and dedication of student leaders whose example inspires other students.
National School Color Guard Award
This award honors the outstanding contributions and dedication of student leaders in Color Guard who inspire others.
John Philip Sousa Award
This award was established in 1954 to honor top band students by Helen Sousa Albert and Priscilla Sousa, daughters of the famous composer and bandmaster, John Philip Sousa. It is the pinnacle of achievement in a high school band program. It recognizes outstanding dedication and superior musicianship. It is a nationwide symbol of excellence in musical achievement.