Northwest High School Band
Grand Island, Nebraska
About our program...
At Northwest, "Band" as a class, consists of various types of ensembles and performing opportunities. During the first quarter, the group meets as a marching band, and performs at home football games and various parades and contests. The band functions as a concert band for the rest of the year (second through fourth quarters). As a concert band, the band presents several concerts and utilizes guest clinicians and other means to improve the musicianship of the group. Throughout the year, the band plays as a pep band for volleyball and basketball games. The jazz band is auditioned after the completion of marching season, and meets in the mornings. Members also have the opportunity to work up solo literature; all-state and other honor bands will also be available for students to audition.
At Northwest, "Band" as a class, consists of various types of ensembles and performing opportunities. During the first quarter, the group meets as a marching band, and performs at home football games and various parades and contests. The band functions as a concert band for the rest of the year (second through fourth quarters). As a concert band, the band presents several concerts and utilizes guest clinicians and other means to improve the musicianship of the group. Throughout the year, the band plays as a pep band for volleyball and basketball games. The jazz band is auditioned after the completion of marching season, and meets in the mornings. Members also have the opportunity to work up solo literature; all-state and other honor bands will also be available for students to audition.
About the director...
The director of bands at Northwest High School is Shawn Pfanstiel. Pfanstiel took over responsibilities of the band in the summer 2008, after graduating from the University of Nebraska-Kearney with a B.A.Ed. in Music. When Pfanstiel is not standing on a podium or marching in a parade, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Katie, daughter Emma, playing the organ and being involved with church music, grilling, and taking care of his yard. Pfanstiel is a 2015 recipient of the Jack R. Snider Outstanding Young Band Director Award. He is currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Music Education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
The director of bands at Northwest High School is Shawn Pfanstiel. Pfanstiel took over responsibilities of the band in the summer 2008, after graduating from the University of Nebraska-Kearney with a B.A.Ed. in Music. When Pfanstiel is not standing on a podium or marching in a parade, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Katie, daughter Emma, playing the organ and being involved with church music, grilling, and taking care of his yard. Pfanstiel is a 2015 recipient of the Jack R. Snider Outstanding Young Band Director Award. He is currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Music Education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.