Elementary: 5th grade students across the District are given 30 minute group lessons twice a week at their elementary school. through a “pull-out” program which means that students are pulled from their regular class in order to have their lessons. Students who sign up for band are given the opportunity to learn to play the flute, clarinet, trumpet, or trombone.  Students who sign up for strings are given the opportunity to learn to play the violin, viola, or cello.Students in these programs will have three concerts throughout the year where they will meet as a group of all 5th grade students from the district in band and strings (All-City Concerts).

UMS: UMS has a 6th Grade Band, Choir, and Orchestra.  Students are also given the opportunity to begin playing an instrument in the Beginning 6th Grade Band or Strings Classes.  There is a 7th Grade Band, Choir, and Orchestra.  Again, at the 7th grade level, there is another opportunity to being playing an instrument in the Beginning 7th Grade Band or Strings Classes.  There is an 8th Grade Band, Choir, and Orchestra.In addition to these ensembles that meet during the school day, there is a Concert Band, Concert Choir, Concert Orchestra, and Jazz Band that meet before school.  These ensembles are an enrichment opportunity for students who are excelling in their daily ensembles.  

UHS: UHS has two concert bands: Symphonic Band and Wind Symphony. These two bands also makeup the Pep Bands that perform at home basketball games. The Tiger Marching Band begins its season with band camp during the summer, and they perform at home football games, parades, and competitions throughout the fall. UHS also houses Symphonic Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, Urbana Singers, Concert Choir, and Honors Choir. In addition to these ensembles that meet during the school day, there are two A Cappella vocal groups, a Jazz Band, and a Jazz Combo.  These ensembles are an enrichment opportunity for students who are excelling in their daily ensembles.  These groups are selected by audition and/or invitation.

The Evelyn Burnett Underwood (EBU) Instrumental Assistance Program: The EBU Instrumental Assistance Program provides musical instruments to low income students who want to participate in the instrumental music programs in the Urbana Schools. Student requirements include a desire to learn, an agreement to meet the expectations of the class, and a financial need. 

For more information on the EBU Program and how to donate, visit the EBU webpage. 

For more information on UHS Bands, visit the UHS Band Boosters website!