Instrumental

As part of the core curriculum and their regular schedule, middle school students may choose vocal, instrumental, or both music classes. Students perform in a Christmas and spring concert and are encouraged to participate in the Twin Cities Fine Arts Festival.

Middle school students often perform with the grade school band program in cooperation with Good Shepherd Lutheran School (Burnsville), St. John's Lutheran School (Red Wing), and Crown of Life Lutheran School (West St. Paul).

The Crusader Band is for any student who would like to perform instrumental music. This class emphasizes basic ensemble playing techniques, practice routines, rehearsal techniques, basic music theory, and ear training. The band performs at concerts and may attend various band clinics and festivals. Band members also have the option to use their instrumental skills in several extracurricular groups including Pep Band, Percussion Ensemble, Brass Choir, Oakdale Avenue Jazz Ensemble, Woodwind Ensemble, and other instrumental groups.

This co-curricular ensemble is an auditioned group of students in grades 9-12 who are a part of the Crusader Band. The Oakdale Avenue Jazz band performs at several concerts and civic events throughout the year and attends jazz clinics and regional honors festivals.

Pep Band includes students in grades 9-12 who are part of the Concert Band or those who have requested inclusion. The Pep Band supports school spirit—playing at home sporting events and accompanying the teams to tournaments.

Students who play the piano or organ are encouraged to volunteer as accompanists for daily chapel. Students in grades 9-12 who sing or play an instrument like a keyboard, guitar, or a drum set can sign up to be on the Praise Team. These musicians sing and play contemporary Christian music at various times during the year in daily chapel.