Mercer Island Schools Band Program
From the streets of Manhattan in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade to the heart of London on New Year's Day, the Mercer Island Band Program performs on some of the world's most iconic stages.
Our award-winning, comprehensive curricular and extracurricular opportunities include Marching Band, Concert Bands, Pep Band, Animal Band, Percussion, and several Jazz Bands, Soloists & Ensembles.
Over 600 students from grades 5-12, participate in our district-wide band program. Every student who wants to be part of this program finds a place to build connections, grow as individuals and musicians, and discover a true sense of belonging.
Our student leaders gain experience and confidence guiding incoming band members while being taught and supported by our dedicated directors.
Thank you to the Mercer Island School Band Boosters for supporting our program and our band students so that each student may participate in band and all band activities.
Why choose band for your student?
With so many extracurricular options out there, we know that your family’s time and resources are valuable. Our comprehensive band program offers a unique, enriching experience that goes far beyond music. Here are just a few of the top benefits we offer:
-
Long-Term Mentorship: Our dedicated directors work with students throughout their entire band career, from 5th grade all the way to graduation. They are trusted advisors who are deeply invested in each student's growth.
-
Lifelong Friendships: Band students form incredibly close bonds. Whether they are collaborating on beautiful concert music, traveling together, or supporting one another through the ups and downs of life, they build a true community.
-
A Place for Everyone: We are proudly a "no-cut" program. There is a place for every student here, offering meaningful opportunities to participate and grow at all skill levels.
-
A Tradition of Excellence: Our program is one of the best in the state and is nationally recognized. We offer exceptional performance standards and leadership opportunities that help students grow and excel.
Achievements of the Mercer Island Schools Band Program
Our commitment to musical education has earned us local, national, and international acclaim.
2027 Music for All National Festival
2026 London’s New Year’s Day Parade
2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
4x Tournament of Roses Participants
100+ WMEA All-State Students (Last 5 Years)
2x Grammy Signature School
24+ Commissioned Pieces (Last 20 Years)
2x NAMM Best Community for Music Education
World-Stage Performances & Accolades
Beyond the classroom, our students perform on some of the world’s biggest stages and engage in meaningful collaborations with musicians and artists, reflecting a commitment to music education recognized at local, national, and international levels. We are grateful for the opportunities to share our music.
National Recognition: Recognized on the floor of the 112th Congress as a Program of Distinction, and recipient of the prestigious Mike D. Sewell “Service through Music” Award.
Iconic Stages: Performed at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, 5 times for the Seattle Seahawks, twice for Major League Soccer (MLS), and at the NAfME All-Northwest Convention.
International Acclaim: Featured as the International Guest Ensemble at the Australian National Band Competition.
Community Pride: Winner of the 2023 Mercer Island PTSA Program of the Year Award.
Exceptional Collaborations
Jazz & Classical Masters: Wycliffe Gordon, Allen Vizzutti, Dick Oatts, Sean Jones, Terrell Stafford, Marcus Printup, Dawn Clement, and Steve Kovalcheck.
Elite Ensembles: Canadian Brass, Boston Brass, Lucky Chops, Third Coast Percussion, Aberdeen, and more.
Ready to join a legacy of excellence?
Contact our Band Administrator for assistance
