Instrumental Music
The GAMP Instrumental Music Department consists of several instrumental ensembles. The department’s emphasis is in developing the individuality of its students’ talents. The ethnicity of the student body and staff allow for creativity in varied musical styles from Jazz, Swing, to the Classics. Students who play an instrument receive group lessons once a week from one of the GAMP faculty. Middle school and high school students also have the opportunity to audition for the annual All-City Music Festival.
We offer various ensembles from beginners to the more advanced. Middle School students can participate in String Orchestra, Advanced Strings, Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, and Swing Band. High School students may participate in Orchestra, String Quartet, Concert Band, Marching Band, Color Guard, Jazz Band, and Brass Quintet. The Marching Band and Color Guard performs annually at the Columbus Day Parade, and other recent performances of note include our String Quartet at the Museum of Art (for the Nexus Foundation), a Side by Side performance with the Philadelphia Orchestra, Swing Band at the Rittenhouse Square (Flower Show), Jazz Band (Combo) at the Warwick Hotel, and a live broadcast on Good Morning America prior to Super Bowl LII.
In keeping with the GAMP philosophy, our life-learned lessons include a sense of commitment, diversity, and enhancement of aptitude, as well as discipline. We continue to strive toward the state of unity and continuity.
Instrumental activities are directed by Mr. Mac Holcomb and Mrs. Aileen Rimando-Jackson; and assisted by itinerant teachers Mr. Set Rodriguez-Diaz (Violin/Viola), Mr. Richard Jones (Cello/Bass), Mr. Darren Lynch (Brass), Mr. Wally Bechtold (Woodwinds), and Mr. Nick Costa (Percussion).