Directors
JOSHUA WAVLE
THOMAS WILSON
Associate Director of Bands
Head Director of Bands
Teaching: Marching Percussion, Studio Jazz,
Wind Ensemble, Winter Percussion
Director in charge of Program Management
Teaching: Cougar Marching, Symphonic Band, Advanced Jazz
Concert Bands
INTERMEDIATE CONCERT
Students who have more than one year of playing experience may join this group.
WIND ENSEMBLE
The Wind Ensemble performs a wide range of standard band literature. It has a long history of success in ISSMA regional competitions.
SYMPHONIC BAND
The Symphonic Band plays the most advanced music of all the concert bands. It has been an ISSMA state finalist all but two years since 1985, including numerous top-four finishes. Members of the group are routinely given Gold awards at district and state solo and ensemble contests and selected for all-state bands and orchestras.
Jazz Bands
INTERMEDIATE (Jazz 4)
This class introduces students with some instrument knowledge
to the experience of playing jazz.
LAB (Jazz 3)
This group is intended for students with some jazz experience. Much emphasis is placed on improvisation and exposure to all jazz styles.
STUDIO (Jazz 2)
Studio Jazz has been recognized with top ratings at numerous events in recent years.
ADVANCED (Jazz 1)
Advanced Jazz Band is one of the nation’s top high school jazz ensembles. Members are frequently recognized as outstanding soloists. They have performed at conventions, festivals, and competitions in Toronto, New Orleans, Long Beach, Omaha, New York City, and elsewhere.
North student musicians organize their own jazz combos with the assistance of the band directors. Most perform at various festivals and competitions and receive top awards. Combos may be available to perform at private and community events.
Contact Thomas Wilson for more information.
Cougar Marching Band
The Bloomington North Cougar Marching Band represents Bloomington North in weekly invitational and ISSMA competitions during the months of September through October. They compete in Class B, which is determined by school size, not band size. Since 1994 they have been a state finalist many times, finishing as high as 5th (in 2006 and 2023). Notable performances include the 1999 Rose Bowl Parade, the 2003 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and the 2006 and 2012 Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parades.