We Begin With "Why" 

For someone observing our band program, what we do is easy to figure out. We perform music at the highest level we are capable of. How we do it is also easy to witness. We spend a great deal of time being intentional with our practice habits, we spend our time wisely and efficiently, and we make the most out of every rehearsal.

Why we do this is what is most important to us and is what makes the band experience at Camden High School inspiring for our students. It is our belief that through participation in music we build the foundation of a skill set that makes our students successful long after the instrument returns to the case the final time. It is our goal to insure that every student who participates in the band program, walks away from those years with an understanding of the importance of hard work, self-discipline, leadership, and selflessness. It is these skills that will pay dividends in the lives of our students as they enter adulthood and become productive citizens. We want to add value to their lives in a way that serves them far longer than they could ever imagine. 

While it is our hope that all of our students will continue to perform on their instrument after graduation, or at the very least will become educated listeners and consumers of music, we are aware of the fact that the vast majority of our students will not continue playing music after school. Our mission then becomes much more impactful for our students in their lives beyond graduation. 

​We believe participation in band provides us with a unique vehicle for instilling these life skills deep within the DNA of our members. We often say that while band is the course, life is the curriculum. ​

Our band program is an essential component to our school system. Offering students the opportunity to perform, learn the value of music education, and gain essential life-skills, the Camden Band Program is the benchmark for band programs in rural area.