Santiago’s first band program was made up of a mere 29 students. The music program quickly grew, adding a jazz band and then a second concert band. In six years, a second band director was added to accommodate all of the courses offered. Today, the BOSS includes four concert bands, three jazz big bands, a drumline, color guard, string orchestra, and a 240-member marching band.

The Santiago Instrumental Music department also offers Class Guitar, Music Appreciation, and Music Theory.

The mission of the Instrumental Music program is to build a strong, well-balanced, exciting program that uniquely meets the musical needs of each student.

Here at Santiago High School, we take great pride in the fact that our program provides a well-rounded music education experience.

Santiago Band - 2013 Rose Parade — Santiago Band – 2013 Rose Parade

Whereas so many other high schools excel in only one area, Santiago’s marching band, concert bands, orchestra and jazz bands are equally successful. Santiago band students are selected to All-State, All-Southern California, and regional honor bands.

As a testament to our program’s outstanding organization and leadership, Santiago High has hosted the American Drumline Association (ADLA) semifinals and championships, and the Winter Guard Association of Southern California (WGASC) championships. For the past 10 years, Santiago has hosted a 3-day Band and Orchestra Festival for the Southern California School Band and Orchestra Association (SCSBOA) and has periodically hosted jazz festivals on campus. Santiago was honored to be chosen to march in the 2013, 2018 and 2024 Pasadena Rose Parade.

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