Notre Dame Band Program
About Director of Bands, marcie smith:
A 1997 graduate of Notre Dame, Mrs. Smith holds a BS in Music Education from UTC. She spent 17 years at Red Bank High School. Under her direction, the Blue Lion Marching Band won many 1st place titles and the Concert Band earned 2 Superior ratings. She has taught 4 All-State musicians, she has seen countless students continue to play in college, and her students have earned over $30,000 in music scholarships. She joined our faculty in 2022 to apply what she has learned to the NDHS Bands.
Program Offerings:
Tri-M Music Honor Society:
Notre Dame was granted their own chapter in 2023. The requirements are:
- LEAD: 4 auditions - This is how you lead by example, improving yourself as an independent musician
- PERFORM: 3 years in the main ensemble class with an A average – the main performance ensemble
- SERVE: 2 years in the Green Machine - This is how we serve our community
- There is a $15 joining fee for qualified candidates
Green Machine Marching Band:
Established in 1975 by Mr. Jim McClure, Mrs. Smith has resurrected this face of the Notre Dame Band. The Green Machine is the marching band: woodwinds, brass, and percussion. We have 2 weeks of camp in late July and practice 2x week after school until the end of September. We compete in one competition. We perform at all football games. I want to make Green Machine flexible for anyone interested in Fall athletics. PE credit can be earned here. There is a $150 fee to participate.
Concert Band:
This is the main ensemble of the program. Students that already know how to play woodwinds, brass, or percussion make up the group. This is a class with minimal after-school time, if any. We perform at all concerts and take part in the Concert Performance Assessment. We perform at all pep rallies and perform out in the community. $100 fee for non-marchers.
Funky Irish Jazz Band:
Notre Dame has been known for its world-class jazz band for many years. This ensemble includes: saxes, bones and trumpets, guitar, bass, and drumset. We rehearse 2x week outside the school day for 30 minutes. We perform on all concerts.
Irish Rhapsody Color Guard:
This group had a big presence in the 1980s under the direction of Perry Vandergriff. Considered the visual ensemble of the Green Machine, this group is having a revival. Students can take it as a class, be a part of the Green Machine, or both. PE credit can be earned here.
Beginning Band:
Once students see how big a presence the band has at ND, everyone wants to join! This class is for students that want to learn woodwind, brass, or percussion. The ultimate goal is to eventually join the Concert Band and/or Green Machine. Their future is bright!
Audition Preparation:
This class focuses on all the audition opportunities open to high school musicians. This is the class is open to string and piano students. Emphasis will be given to audition skills and individual practice time.
