The North band program has developed a rich tradition of excellence in all of its major areas: the concert bands, jazz bands, Cougar Marching Band, and Color Guard. Concert and jazz bands meet during the school day, while marching band, jazz combos, and pep band are extracurricular (though marching band students receive a half credit).

Band Directors

Janis Stockhouse, BHSN Band Director stockho at mccsc.edu
Thomas Wilson, BHSN Band Director twilson at mccsc.edu
Christy Wilson, BHSN Color Guard and Winter Guard Director christy.wilson74 at att.net

Concert Bands

Intermediate/Advanced Concert Band
Students who have more than one year of playing experience may join this group. It is conducted by both Janis Stockhouse and Thomas Wilson. (The course catalog refers to it as "Intermediate Concert Band," but everyone calls it "Advanced Concert Band.")

Wind Ensemble
The Wind Ensemble performs a wide range of standard band literature. It has a long history of success in ISSMA regional competitions. Thomas Wilson is the conductor.

Symphonic Band
The Symphonic Band plays the most advanced music of all the concert bands. It has been an ISSMA state finalist all but two years since 1985, including numerous top-four finishes. Members of the group are routinely given Gold awards at district and state solo and ensemble contests and selected for all-state bands and orchestras. Symphonic Band is conducted by Janis Stockhouse.

Jazz Bands

Beginning Jazz Ensemble (Jazz 4)
This class introduces students with some instrument experience to playing jazz. Directed by Thomas Wilson. Offered if there is sufficient interest.

Intermediate Jazz Ensemble (Jazz 3)
This group is intended for students with some jazz experience. Much emphasis is placed on improvisation and exposure to all jazz styles. Directed by Janis Stockhouse

Studio Jazz Ensemble (Jazz 2)
Led by Thomas Wilson, Studio Jazz has been recognized with top ratings at numerous events in recent years.

Advanced Jazz Ensemble (Jazz 1)
Janis Stockhouse directs the Advanced Jazz Band, one of the nation's top high school jazz ensembles. Its members are frequently recognized as outstanding soloists. They have performed at conventions, festivals, and competitions in Toronto, New Orleans, Long Beach, Omaha, New York City, and elsewhere.

Jazz Combos

North student musicians organize their own jazz combos with the assistance of the band directors. Most perform at various festivals and competitions and receive top awards. Combos may be available to perform at private and community events. Contact Janis Stockhouse for more information.

Cougar Marching Band

The Bloomington North Cougar Marching Band represents Bloomington North in weekly invitational and ISSMA competitions during the months of September through October. Since 1994 it has been a state finalist many times, finishing as high as 5th (in 2006). Notable performances include the 1999 Rose Bowl Parade, the 2003 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and the 2006 Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade. In 2012, they will be marching in the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day parade.

Color Guard

Our color guard program has been steadily growing since 2004 under consistent instruction and with the introduction of our color guard class at the high school. The ensemble performs with the Cougar Marching Band in the fall season. Spring training and rounds of auditions for this group are from May 1 to the end of June. Immediately following Marching Band State Finals, we audition for the winter season. Our Winter Guard is increasing in talent every year. We are currently in IHSCGA Open Class and received 8th place at State Finals in March of 2012.

Pep Band

The pep band, composed of volunteers from the bands listed above, provides spirited support for the Bloomington North boys basketball team. The Cougar Marching Band performs at home football games.