The West Johnston High School Band Program of Benson, NC was established in the Fall of 2002 with the opening of West Johnston High School. The West Johnston High School Band Program is comprised of various components that perform and compete at the local, state, and national levels. This program offers students a comprehensive educational experience through music, performance, life lessons, and opportunities that extend well beyond a traditional classroom.
The West Johnston Band Program has influenced hundreds of high school students. These students have learned that with hard work and dedication anything is possible. Rewards for this dedication include travel and performance throughout our nation, representing Johnston County and the State of North Carolina. The music program at West is guided by an extremely talented and committed staff of top music educators.
The Band Program is part of the Fine Arts curriculum at West Johnston High School and consists of the Marching Band, Color Guard, Winter Percussion, Jazz Band, Wind Ensemble, and Symphonic Band that perform and compete at national, regional, and local competitions. The Band Program proudly provides live pit performances for the West Johnston Musical each year and for collaborative Fine Arts events.
The Marching Band has had several top place finishes at Bands of America and at state and local competitions. They have also marched in the 55th Presidential Inaugural Parade, the 2008 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, the 2010 ABC Walt Disney World Christmas Parade, and the 2018 Chicago MacDonald's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Most recently, the Marching Band marched down Main Street in Walt Disney World in April 2022. The Winter Guards and Percussion groups have placed at Atlantic Indoor Association and Winter Guard International events. The Jazz Band has performed at the North Carolina Music Educator's Association Conference in Winston Salem and at the Crescent City Music Festival in New Orleans, LA. The Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band have earned many Superior ratings at the Southeastern District Music Performance Adjudication.
The West students, staff, and parents pride themselves in providing high quality performance opportunities that build great musicians and performers.