The Oldham County High School Band program was formed in 1953 with the consolidation of La Grange and Crestwood High Schools into one building in Buckner, Kentucky. Eventually, rapid population growth from the mid-1970’s through the 1990’s resulted in the construction of South Oldham High School (1989), and North Oldham High School (2003).
The OCHS Band program has a long tradition of performance excellence both on the marching field and the concert stage. Prior to changing to a non-competitive format in 2004, the Marching Colonels were a 5-time finalist in the KMEA State Marching Band Championships, and performed in the Fiesta Bowl, Orange Bowl, and Macy*s Thanksgiving Day parades. The Symphonic Bands have traveled to perform at competitive festival events in Toronto, St. Louis, Chicago, Williamsburg, San Antonio, New York, Chattanooga, and Orlando. The band has been selected to perform as a featured ensemble at the KMEA In-Service conference four times and as a clinic ensemble at the Conference on three other occasions. Chamber ensembles (flute and tuba/euphonium) were also selected to perform in 2013 and 2014. In addition, both Symphonic Bands have earned consistent Distinguished ratings at KMEA Regional and State assessments for well over three decades.
The program averages 50 students per year in our All District ensembles, with a considerable number selected for all state honors. Many students participate in university-sponsored honors bands each year. Since 2016, multiple OCHS Band students have performed in the NAfME All National Honors Ensembles. Many of our graduates continue their musical experience into college and their adult lives as teachers, professionals, or simply for enjoyment.