HOME OF THE GAHR INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC PROGRAM
Gahr High School • Cerritos, CA
Always striving for the next level of excellence
Gahr High School has grown into one of the most respected and well-rounded music programs in Southern California. The Gahr High School Marching Band is an eight-time California State Band Champion, the 2022 Western Band Association 4A Class Champion, and a Bands of America California Regional Finalist in 2018, 2023, 2024, and 2025. Gahr High School proudly participated in the 2024 Tournament of Roses Parade. Our award-winning concert bands and jazz ensembles consistently receive top ratings at festivals, and our Winter Guard and Indoor Percussion programs are regular finalists in WGASC and SCPA. The Gahr Instrumental Music Program has been recognized with a SupportMusic Merit Award from The NAMM Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education.
Be a part of something AMAZING
The Gahr Marching Gladiators are Gahr High School’s award-winning marching band, traveling and competing throughout Southern California. This prestigious ensemble is made up of dedicated young musicians and performers who share a passion for excellence and a love of performing. Participation in the marching band builds responsibility, teamwork, and a strong work ethic – helping students learn to set goals, follow through, and finish the job.
MAKE LIFE-LONG FRIENDS
Playing music in a group teaches teamwork and the joy and rewards of group accomplishment. Band members share efforts and experiences, and are often friends for life.
GO ON FUN TRIPS
Being a part of the band program allows students the unique opportunity to travel. In recent years, our band has been fortunate to perform in Disneyland, Las Vegas, and Hawaii.
A FAMILY AFFAIR
We encourage all parents to get involved in our booster organization. Gahr has an incredible group of talented, dedicated volunteers with an amazing array of skills and abilities.
BE A PART OF SOMETHING BIGGER THAN YOURSELF
TEAM WORK
One of the best things about marching band is that each individual member is as important as the next. There’s no such thing as having too many people, as long as the members are able to work together as a team. While each member has their own responsibilities, it all comes together to form one thing: a marching band. In the process of learning each movement and memorizing each note, your child’s bond with the other members will help the band accomplish their overall goals.
PERSONAL GROWTH
For students who are especially shy or afraid of performing in front of others, joining a marching band can help calm their fears and boost their self-confidence. Additionally, by sharing in the same experiences and downfalls with a group of like minded individuals, your child will have access to a built-in support system from which they can personally grow and develop. Each time your child takes the stage or gears up for a performance, they’ll gain a little bit more confidence.
TIME MANAGEMENT
Any marching band member can agree that being part of a marching band is a huge time commitment. Between two hour rehearsals two to three days a week, high school exhibitions, and performing at football games and competitions, finding the time for homework, after-school jobs, and other activities can be difficult. However, in the end, your child will quickly learn how to manage their time- a skill many adults continue to have problems with later in life.
