Instrumental Music

Students are introduced to instrumental music and the option to join band beginning in 5th grade. Our program is focused on the development of a well-rounded and comprehensive music education for all students. Through the program, we hope to show students how to succeed through hard work, passion for music, and teamwork with their fellow band members. Membership is open to all 5th-12th grade band students who currently play a band instrument. Students participating in the program receive regular individual lessons, group instruction, and various "extra" opportunities such as honor bands, music tours, and more. 

Ensembles

Beginning Band
Junior High Concert Band
High School Concert Band
Marching Band
Pep Band
Jazz Band

Lessons

Individual lessons are required for all Junior High and High School Band students. Students are required to have at least 4 lessons per quarter, which cover ensemble literature as well as individual development on their instrument.

Vocal Music

Hudson High School has a long-standing tradition of excellence in vocal music. Students can participate in vocal music beginning in 5th grade, building on their skills from elementary music. The high school Concert Choir performs regularly throughout the year in concerts and at the annual state contests. Students also participate in the state solo/ensemble contest, where Hudson entries have received division I ratings and the prestigious Outstanding Performer award. All members of Concert Choir are eligible to audition for membership in the Hudson Jazz Choir, which meets outside of the school day to prepare music for Jazz Contest and other community outreach events throughout the year. High school vocalists may also audition for the Iowa All State Chorus. Acceptance into the chorus is the highest honor a high school singer can achieve during their secondary performing career. Students in 7th-9th grades also have the option to audition for the OPUS Honor Choir. Students in junior high choir also perform regularly at concerts throughout the year. Junior high choir students have the opportunity to participate in the annual musical, as well.

Theater

The speech & theater program at Hudson offers many opportunities for students to get involved with performing onstage. Students can participate in the annual musical and play, open to any student at Hudson High School. Speech begins rehearsals in November and performs at contest in January and February. Hudson performers have competed most recently in the large group categories of musical theater, ensemble acting, group improvisation, and readers theater. Students involved in the musical also take part in the Iowa High School Musical Theater Awards program. Hudson actors have received awards for Outstanding Performance in a Lead Role and have been invited to perform in the IHSMTA Showcase in June. Speech and theater students are also seen regularly performing at events within the Hudson community.