Program Overview

The School Band Program is offered for grades fifth through eight and it is designed in two stages. Fifth graders start with Beginning School Band, while sixth, seventh and eight graders move into the Middle School Band Program.

Classes are offered on a regular weekly basis under the instruction of Kennedy High School’s faculty member, Frances McKamey. Beginning Band classes are on Mondays and Fridays and Middle School Band meets on Wednesdays and Fridays.

The students learn the basics of music, develop the skills to play a traditional band instrument, as well as experience the pride felt in belonging to a school performance group. Music is a great channel to enhance a child’s self-esteem.


Joining the Program

  • School Band classes are open to students attending grades 5th through 8th.
  • No previous experience is needed.
  • Program runs from September through May.
  • Current tuition is $160 for the year, and it is paid with your monthly tuition payment ($20 per month).

A rental program by one of our local music dealers supplies the instruments at reasonable prices. The required method book and music stand may also be purchased at the upcoming rental meeting. Although most of our band parents choose to rent the instruments, many have family owned instruments to use. Details regarding the rental meeting and a price sheet will be handed out at the band assembly.

Check the online calendar for the first day of band and instrument rental on campus.


Honor Band

Middle School Band students are also encouraged to audition for the Honor Band, a performance group selected from the eight schools that participate in the School Band program. Honor Band rehearsals take place twice a month starting in February.  This band performs at the Festival, Kennedy Catholic’s Instrumental Spring Concert and does a day tour to elementary schools in the program.


Summer Band Program

During the summer, in July, Kennedy High School also offers an annual Summer Band Program for all those students interested.


Questions? Please feel free to contact Miss McKamey or at 206-246-0500 ext. 370.