High School Bands
The Clarence High School Bands have long enjoyed a national reputation for musical excellence and worthy educational achievements.
Our guest appearances at state and international music conferences; our local concerts; our national tours; our recordings; the numerous Clarence students who appear at county, regional, state and national music festivals: these have all led to conductors, audiences, music educators, and students from other schools to expect exceptionally high levels of musical performance and personal behavior from the Clarence High School Bands.
It is the purpose of the music department to maintain this worthy tradition while increasing the musical sensitivity and knowledge of our band members and stimulating character growth through cooperative effort, self-discipline, responsibility, patience, attention to detail, and the desire for perfection. We believe that each student, as a direct result of his/her full participation in the Clarence Music Program, will be a lifelong, independent, comprehensive musician.
Please be sure to read the High School Band Handbook, Lesson Book Curriculum and Mouthpiece Progression, and other Important Information About Instrument Rentals and Purchases.
Important NEW information for lessons as of 2026 - Students must inform their classroom teacher ahead of time when they will be going to a lesson, so that their attendance is marked properly. If going to a lesson during lunch the Music Office Secretary with mark them LES for that period, otherwise it is now the classroom or study hall teacher's responsibility to enter student's attendance correctly.
Students may also consider signing up for the Academy of Visual and Performing Arts (AVPA) starting in the 9th or 10th grade, and graduating with that distinction upon fulfilling the requirements.
The CHS Drama Club offers opportunities to audition for the fall play and spring musical, and they need help with the various crews (stage/tech, costume/makeup, student directors, etc.) which meet early mornings or after school. All are welcomed!
Contact Mr. Merlihan if interested in either the AVPA or Drama Club: SMerlihan@ClarenceSchools.org.
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Ms. Casidy Reed Wind Ensemble, Concert Band Assistant (716) 407-9020 x1326 |
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Ms. Andrea Runfola Symphonic Band and Concert Band (716) 407-9020 x9041 |
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Mr. Thomas Furminger CHS Percussion Teacher HH-LV Elementary Band Teacher TFurminger@ClarenceSchools.org (716) 407-9020 x1326 (CHS Band Room) |
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