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CDH Band It's worth it.

Did you take band class in middle school?

Awesome! Sign up for band at CDH. You’ll be glad you did.

Never taken band before?

Not a problem, we’ll teach you! Sign up for band at CDH. You’re going to love it.

Being a part of the Cretin-Derham Hall Band is a life-changing experience.

High school band is fun, challenging, rewarding, and creates memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.

When you're in band, you're a part of the team. Everyone wears the jersey - there are no benchwarmers.

In fact, it would be tough to find a single adult who would tell you,“I really wish I hadn't played in band in school.” Most people will tell you they wish they had taken more music class in high school!

So... why should you take band in high school at CDH?

CDH Pep Band

It's Rewarding.

The CDH Band program has lots of amazing opportunities, like Concert Band, Beginning Band for new folks, and many co-curricular opportunities. Band provides a wide range of experiences, including Concerts, Pep Band, Marching Band, and performances at events around the school. Not to mention, free entrance to many varsity sports games!

There are usually four concerts a year, plus MSHSL Music Contest and the Suburban East Conference (SEC) Music Festival. Other opportunities include Jazz Band, Solo/Ensemble Contest, and auditioning for All-State and/or various Honor Bands.

It's Fun!

No other class or activity provides the level of social support and friendship that band class does. Through class, small group rehearsal, lessons, performances, concerts, and trips, you will develop strong and life-long bonds with your bandmates.

The Band room will be a place to call home during your time at CDH.

Even better, you get to travel with band! Every other year, the band takes a national trip to places like San Antonio, Nashville, Canada, Orlando, Los Angeles, Chicago and St. Louis. During your first year at CDH we will be traveling to sunny San Diego, California!

2023 CDH Concert Band - a Visit from University of St. Thomas Music Faculty

It's Valuable.

Band makes you smarter. Numerous studies show that there is a direct correlation between studying music and academic success. Students in band typically score higher on major tests (like the SAT) and higher in math classes. Colleges and universities consider music classes very important in admission. Band offers leadership opportunities, life skills, and resume builders that just don’t exist in many other classes or activities. Many colleges even offer music-based scholarships, just like academics and sports. For all this, and much more, taking band is just plain worth it.

It's Flexible!

You don’t have to choose. It’s. That. Simple.

Scheduling might look challenging at first, but it is possible to participate in Band, JROTC, co-curriculars, clubs, and sports for all four years of high school. In fact, the Band started with the JROTC and marched with them as far back as 1918. If you need help making scheduling work, don’t stress - just talk to your band teacher! They will help you find a way to make it happen.

If you would like to speak to one of our current band students about band at CDH, or just have questions, email the band teacher, Mr. Zahler (that guy --->) at nzahler@c-dh.org.

Better yet, contact the CDH Admissions Office and request to shadow a band student for a day!

So what are you waiting for?

Your spot is ready for you.

Joining the CDH Band is easy! Just fill out this form and bring it to registration or email it to Mr. Zahler. If you have questions, email Mr. Zahler at nzahler@c-dh.org.