Music Department

What music classes are offered at TPHS?  

Music classes for 2025-2026:

Click on class names for more information about each class.

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Symphonic Band

Wind Ensemble

Intermediate Orchestra

Chamber Strings

Jazz Band

MIDI Composition (Recording Arts)​

Instrumental Music

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Why Choose TPHS?

• As a music student at Torrey Pines, you will be able to develop your skills on your instrument and excel as far as you would like in a fun and exciting environment.  You will find a range of class levels to meet your needs and abilities. 

• Our ensembles play engaging and challenging music and earn top awards at SCSBOA competitions.

• The music department also offers other musical opportunities outside of the school day. Jazz Band students have the opportunity to play in combos. Students in band, jazz band, and orchestra have the opportunity to perform in the pit orchestra for the Theater Department’s yearly musical.

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How do I audition? Should I audition? Do I have to audition?

You will find the answers to these questions and everything else you need to know about auditioning on our Audition page. But here are a few key points.

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All incoming freshmen who want to join one of the upper level band or orchestra classes (Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Chamber Strings) must audition. Freshmen who qualify based on the audition will be placed in the upper level class they audition for.

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MIDI Composition (Recording Arts) and Instrumental Music do not require an audition or previous experience. These classes are open to all students including incoming freshmen.

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When I register for classes, what music class should I sign up for?

When registering for classes, choose the class you would like to join:  Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble*, Jazz Band*, Intermediate Orchestra, Chamber Strings (Advanced Orchestra)*, MIDI/Recording Arts, Instrumental Music.

*These classes require audition.

 

Class lists will be determined after auditions. You will be placed in the appropriate level class after auditions.

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How do I fit music into my schedule?

There is plenty of space to fit four years of music AND academics in your schedule.  TPHS has a seven period schedule. At TPHS it is easy to fit music into your schedule every semester and every year. This allows our music students to take music for all four years of high school, enhancing your development as a musician.

 

 One year of Visual/Performing Arts is required for high school graduation and for UC/CSU admission.

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Can I do music and sports?

Yes, it is possible to do both music and sports.  You can get PE credit for certain sports (5 credits each season after 9th grade, 20 credits maximum). 

 

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How Can Parents Get Involved?

Music parent volunteers  work closely with music director Amy Gelb to support our music program. There are many ways to get involved. Attend our monthly meetings or volunteer to help at a concert or on a trip.

 

Contact the Music Parent Liaisons for more information about getting involved.

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What are the benefits of being a music student?

• It looks good on your college applications!  Colleges want to see a continued focus in a specific area, and taking music for four years is a great way to accomplish that.

• Music provides many leadership opportunities and the chance to participate in honor groups, both of which are a big plus to college admissions officers. 

• Music students can get college scholarships.

• Music offers the chance to participate in traveling, festivals, competitions, and performing for school and community. 

• Music students develop skills in teamwork, discipline, responsibility, communication, and creativity.

• You get to be part of a fun, supportive community within the larger school campus.

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