Instrumental Music

The FRA Jazz Ensemble provides musicians an opportunity to study and perform jazz and popular music, as well as chamber music. Instruction is provided in tone production, rhythm, style, concept, listening skills, music history, and improvisation. By studying a variety of musical styles, students acquire a deeper understanding and appreciation for the aesthetic qualities of music. FRA bands perform in two school concerts each year, delighting audiences with their award-winning talent and sincere enjoyment of the art of instrumental performance.

Over the past decade, the FRA Jazz Ensemble has competed in numerous jazz festivals earning superior ratings. The jazz ensemble was recognized as "best in class" and awarded the superior award at Disney's Jazz Celebration Festival in Orlando, Florida. The band has also competed at Music Fest Orlando and Festival Disney. Members of the Jazz Ensemble earn All Midstate Band and All State Band selection each year, and many former members of the jazz ensemble have chosen to continue their music study at the university level.

The FRA Jazz Combo is another opportunity for students to study and perform jazz and popular music in a small group setting. Tone production, rhythm, style, concept, listening skills, music history, and improvisation are all studied. The Jazz Combo participated in Disney's 2010 Jazz Celebration, performing on the national stage.

The Panther Pep Band is an extracurricular group that performs at all home football games and upper school pep rallies. The Panther Pep Band is known for its high energy entertainment and great sound. The band takes pride in performing for our FRA family.

The middle school band program begins with the Fifth and Sixth Grade Beginner Bands. Students progress to the Seventh and Eighth Grade Advanced Band. Students are eligible to participate in MTSBOA Solo and Ensemble Festival, as well as All Mid-State auditions.