And the marching goes rolling along! The bands here at RBHS, conducted by James Baum, consists of jazz band, marching band, orchestra, concert, symphonic, honors wind ensemble, and chamber orchestra. It’s offered as an elective, rather than an extracurricular activity like some middle schools. The marching band performs at the home football games at halftime, and sits in the stands with short songs to play throughout the game.

“I like teaching them all, and each one has their own unique characteristics that helps me to enjoy each band,” said Baum.

Baum teaches and perfects all of the band’s music and performances to make sure it’s set and ready to go. This will be his tenth year teaching all of the bands. You can still join band with no musical experience in some ensembles.

“We take beginners in a couple of the ensembles, other ensembles are audition based,” said Baum.

Joining band is a way to connect with people who share the love of music, whether it be creating or listening.

“My favorite part of being in band is probably seeing people be creative together. Band is wonderful, and I love being around people who all love music,” said junior Emmett Brundage, a member of the symphonic band.

Each day in band is different and unique depending on the ensemble you’re in.

“It’s always fun. We get together, warm up together, then usually get right into the rehearsal. It’s not your average band rehearsal, it’s more fun,” said Baum.

If music is something you enjoy, consider joining band!