Introduction
When The W. T. Woodson High School opened its doors to
students for the first time in the fall of 1962, it was not only the largest
school in Fairfax County, but it was also the largest in the state of Virginia.
The Woodson campus consists of a seventy-nine acre tract of land that was an
operating dairy farm until the school was built. The size of the site was, and
remains, the largest school campus in Fairfax County. The school is home to
over 2100 students and is known county and state-wide for its excellence in
academics, athletics and the arts.
Woodson High School has a long tradition of excellence in the Performing Arts.
The Department offers two orchestras, six choirs, three concert bands, jazz
band, three guitar classes, A.P. Music Theory and a very active drama department
as well.
The Woodson Band program has a long tradition of excellence that has come
about through hard work, dedication and a system of rules and expectations.
What makes band such an invaluable experience for students is the level of
performance and personal accountability which is expected of each and every
student in the program. Each and every student is expected to give 100% both
as an individual and as a team player, always striving to become the best
musician possible. Because the strength of the program is determined not by
the top players but by the depth of talent within the program, all members are
an integral part of the quest for superior music making. Members of the program
are serious about music and study privately on their instruments. By the time
a student becomes a member of the Symphonic Band, they are performing college
level music with the maturity and finesse of a college level player. They also
learn time management skills when they have to organize rehearsals, studies and
other activities into their day. Band students therefore, leave high school with
a greater ability to deal with the rigors of college and the challenges of adult
life.
The Woodson Band program has a variety of ensembles available which will satisfy
every ability level and interest. The program provides a progressive musical
education for its members. Students in all band classes learn basic fundamentals
which will make them proficient on their instruments and teach them to problem solve
in their own practice sessions.
Band Profile
Official Name: W. T. Woodson Cavalier Band
Principal: Jeff Yost
Director: Melinda McKenzie Hall
Curriculum: Marching Band, Symphonic Band, Concert II, Concert I and Jazz Ensemble.
Organization: With a large number of students involved in an active program,
it is necessary to rely heavily on student leadership. These student leaders
include band officers, section leaders, and drum majors. Band officers consist
of president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer, and class representatives.
Each instrument has a section leader and perhaps an assistant section leader
who are in charge of groups ranging in size from 6-23 students. Drum majors
direct the band on and off the field, providing leadership in the areas of
music, marching, and discipline.