Mission Statement

It is the mission of the Benton Central Jr/Sr High School Band Program to develop the individual student through musical experiences that promote the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values necessary to become free-thinking individuals, independent musicians, life-long learners, informed consumers of music, participants of music-making, and advocates of music and music education.

Philosophy Statement

We study music because it is a unique form of knowledge and communication. It gives the student a chance to explore an emotional means of communication and discover how to express his/her own feelings in a positive and appropriate manner. 

Performance is the primary means of learning in the band program. Through performance, a student achieves musical independence through the development of technical ability, listening skills, ensemble skills, and theoretical knowledge.  Participation in the concert band is the primary vehicle for this musical development.  Marching band, jazz band, pep band, ensembles, and solos enrich the overall musical experience for the students. In such a program, students are exposed to a wide variety of the finest in musical literature, and therefore learn to appreciate the value of music.

Besides achieving true musicianship, students gain an understanding of their musical heritage and develop their creative abilities. Each activity in the band program contributes to a well-rounded musical education and helps students experience the joy and satisfaction of music making.  

There are also many valuable by-products of music study through band participation.  Students learn the skills of responsible group membership and participation. Participation in band encourages the development of a good work ethic. In addition, current research studies have found the study of music to have positive effects on mental performance and critical thinking skills. 

The band program, which has the students as its central focus, promotes learning through the art of music making and the development of musical understanding, will most fully provide all the benefits such a program can offer. We seek to be this type of an organization.