Other Ensembles

We offer numerous small ensembles at James F. Byrnes.  Performing in a small ensemble gives students the opportunity to be more independent musicians. This also gives students the opportunity to play a wide variety of music that is not always covered in other band classes.

Jazz Band – Our Jazz Band is open to any student at James F. Byrnes High School. This ensemble usually has 25-30 members.  Students who play non-traditional band instruments such as guitar, bass and keyboards are welcome to participate. Jazz Band meets as a class during the school day which gives students an elective credit.  The Jazz Band has performed at a variety of events including concerts, car shows, Greenville Drive games, and school assemblies.

Percussion Ensemble – It is common for us to have 2-3 percussion ensembles to give our percussionists the opportunity to perform music just for them.  These ensembles perform at concerts as well as solo and ensemble festival. Our band program emphasizes all percussion students learning a variety of percussion instruments.

Brass Choir – We usually have 1-2 brass quintets or choirs that participate in solo and ensemble festival. The past two years the participating students composed their own music and earned Superior ratings.

Woodwind Ensembles – We usually have 2-3 woodwind quintets and ensembles. Students have even performed on secondary instruments to gain additional experience.  Our woodwind ensembles have earned consistent Superior ratings at state events.