The Hellgate Bands have a long history of excellence in band performance. From the 1960’s, under the direction of Mr. Chuck Johnson, Mr. Richard Erickson, Mr. Carl Smart, John Combs (1980 – 2009), Leon Slater (2010-2022), to the present with Jesse Dochnahl, the Hellgate Bands have achieved unparalleled success for decades!
CONCERT BAND/Intermediate (MU0400) (grades 9-12) – Is Hellgate’s entry band, made up of students who are entering high school and who have had three to four years of band experience. Students learn and practice the skills, knowledge, and attitudes needed to perform at a high level.
SYMPHONIC BAND/Advanced (MU0300) (grades 9-12) – Is made up of Juniors, Sophomores and Advanced Placement Freshmen. Students refine and practice the skills, knowledge, and attitudes needed to perform at a high level.
WIND ENSEMBLE (MU0100) (grades 9-12) – Is the most Advanced Placement wind band. Students must demonstrate the highest levels of musicianship and dedication.
PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE (MU1450-1) – (grades 9-12) Explore and develop all areas and styles of percussion music, including marching, drumline, concert and percussion ensemble.
JAZZ BAND (MU0200) – An auditioned performance group that studies jazz styles, improvisation, theory, history, and composition. Students in this ensemble are required to be in a Hellgate wind band or orchestra.
MARCHING BAND (grades 9-12) – This combined group is made up of all Percussion, Concert Band, Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble members. Marching Band is part of the required band curriculum each fall. Marching band starts at the beginning of school and lasts approximately five weeks. We rehearse during our class periods and hit the field/street as a full group before shows and UM Homecoming Parade.
Extra-curricular PEP BAND (grades 9-12) – The exciting pep band plays popular music for home basketball games and other events as needed. All students enrolled in a band are strongly encouraged to participate in the Pep Band. Pep band membership is an important element in qualifying for a Band Letter. Students who make the commitment to play in the pep band must participate throughout the season and attend all performances. Travel for state tournaments based on attendance throughout the season.