Band
Arts

The Marist band is a staple of the school. Since its earliest days to its latest performance, the commitment to excellence has never wavered. Band is an honors course, and while open to all students, does require an audition. The group meets one period per day, plus after school practices, and summer camp. They prepare for a variety of performances, from field competitions to concerts to parades. They are, of course, always prepared for halftime performances at Marist football games. Many of Marist’s band members have gone on to participate in elite college band programs and pursue careers in music. 

Musical Versatility

The band presents a Christmas and spring concert each year, along with a jazz concert and other performances. The group also adds life to indoor athletic events through the pep band. Among the mix of concerts, they show off their depth of musical knowledge, playing classical pieces, big band numbers, standards, pop music, and more. Many band members also lend their talents to the orchestra for Marist musicals.

The band has made some impressive appearances, including the Rose Bowl Parade and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. The group even opened up the new Comiskey Park (now U.S. Cellular Field) in 1991. They are regulars on the Chicago parade scene, marching in the City of Chicago St. Patrick’s Day, Columbus Day, and Thanksgiving Day parades. They are a source of pride for Marist as they march down Western in the South Side Irish Parade each year. They also participate in other local parades and events. 

Each year, the group travels in the U.S. to perform. These are just some of the events the Marist has participated in:

• Chick-fil-A Bowl
• Cotton Bowl
• Orange Bowl
• Peach Bowl
• Sugar Bowl
• Disney World
• New Orleans tour
• New York City’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade
• Dublin, Ireland’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade