JCHS has a variety of ensembles that comprise the band department. Students involved in sports or other school activities are encouraged to participate in the band program.  Attendance is required for all performances.

Symphonic Band is for the intermediate through the advanced instrumental music student.  Entrance into this group is by audition.  In addition to performing at football and basketball games, the band will perform several indoor concerts, parades, and participate in IHSA and IMEA activities.  Members of this group will work on sight reading skills, mastery of rhythmic drills and scales, basic theory skills, intonation and creating an excellent ensemble sound.

Concert Band is for the beginning to intermediate instrumental music student.  Entrance into this group is for all high school students.  The purpose of this group is to continue to work on the musical skills needed to become a successful musician.  This group will perform at concerts throughout the school year, march in the fall, play for sporting events and participate in IHSA and IMEA sponsored activities.

Jazz Ensemble is one of the premier performing ensembles at JCHS. It is a smaller ensemble with entrance by competitive audition. The purpose of this group is to focus on a variety of Jazz, Rock and Pop styles in a traditional “big band” setting. The Jazz Ensemble performs regularly though out the year in the community and at concerts, as well as competing at the Rolling Meadows Jazz and Belleville Jazz festivals. Practices are held on a rotating basis before, during or after school.

Shades of Blue is an extension of the Jazz Ensemble and functions a jazz combo where students focus on small group performance and improvisation. SoB performs regularly through out the year and is available to play for community events. Practices are held on a rotating basis before, during or after school.

Jazz Band is the beginner/intermediate jazz group at JCHS. Entry is open to all students (based on instrumentation). The purpose of this group is to create a foundation of jazz and rock styles. Jazz Band performs at the Variety show and our Jazz Dinner Show. Practices are held once a week during school.

Show Choir Pit Band/Musical Pit Orchestra are two ensembles that accompany our show choir Blue Legato and our Spring Musical. Students are selected based on interest, availability and audition. Practices happen during and after school.