About The Asheville High School Band

Founded in 1924, the Asheville High School Band program holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating high school band in North Carolina. For over 100 years, the band has been a vital part of Asheville City Schools, building a tradition of musical excellence across generations. From the historic programs at Asheville High, Lee Edwards, and Stephens-Lee, Asheville’s bands have consistently delivered outstanding performances in concert, marching, and jazz ensembles.

The AHS Band has a long history of success at the Music Performance Adjudication (formerly "Concert Festival"), with the Wind Symphony earning more than 53 Superior Ratings at Grade VI—the highest level of difficulty. Since first participating in 1926, Asheville bands have achieved over 90 Superior Ratings overall.

Throughout its history, the AHS Band has performed at major events, including for four U.S. Presidents—Franklin D. Roosevelt, Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, and Barack Obama—and proudly marched in President Obama’s second inaugural parade in 2012. The program has also been featured at distinguished venues such as the North Carolina Music Educators Association (NCMEA) Conference, Pearl Harbor’s 75th anniversary commemoration, and most recently, the National Band and Orchestra Festival at Carnegie Hall in New York City.

Whether rallying the crowd at a Friday night football game or delivering an unforgettable concert performance, the Asheville High School Band continues to set the standard for musical achievement and school pride, representing both Asheville City Schools and the broader Asheville community with distinction.