Joining band is easier
than you think.
There is a clear path from middle school band to South Lyon High School Band—and we want to help you find it.
Three simple steps.
Keep band in your high school schedule from the start.
Request Symphonic Band.
During high school course selection, choose Symphonic Band. This is the request for all incoming band students, including percussionists. No audition is required for Symphonic Band.
Tell your counselor band matters.
Make it clear that continuing band is a priority. Ask for help building a four-year course plan that makes room for music, graduation requirements, and other interests.
Explore what comes next.
Once you've planned your band course, check out extracurricular opportunities such as Marching Band, Jazz Band, Pep Band, and more.
Request band first. Plan the rest together.
Families may hear recommendations about taking PE and world language during freshman year. Those are important courses, but they shouldn't automatically end the conversation about band.
Tell your counselor that you want to continue music and ask about options for completing graduation requirements across all four years.
“I want to continue band throughout high school. Can we make a four-year plan that includes Symphonic Band and shows my options for PE and world-language requirements?”
Band is part of your education.
Band can help satisfy graduation requirements while keeping music in your high school experience. Discuss individual plans with your counselor.
Arts requirement
South Lyon’s published curriculum guide identifies Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble as Visual, Applied, and Performing Arts courses.
World-language planning
District graduation materials describe a pathway using additional arts credits in place of the second world-language credit. Ask your counselor about eligibility, graduation year, and college plans.
PE and scheduling
Discuss how PE and health can fit into your four-year schedule. Do not assume marching band or concert band automatically replaces required PE coursework.
Requirements can change by graduating class. Always confirm current district policy and postsecondary admission requirements with South Lyon High School Student Services. See the 2025–26 SLHS curriculum guide (historical reference) for published requirements.
What about Wind Ensemble?
Wind Ensemble is an audition-based concert ensemble. If you're interested in a more advanced musical challenge, contact the director about audition information and placement.
You do not need a Wind Ensemble audition to continue band at South Lyon High School; Symphonic Band remains an open pathway for eligible students.
Still have a scheduling question?
Ask us before taking band out of your plan. We can help explain band participation and coordinate questions you should bring to Student Services.