The James Madison University Lab Band encourages the technical and musical development of band students in the Shenandoah Valley. The mission of the JMU Lab Band is to remove barriers to access in music education in the Shenandoah Valley and to provide JMU pre-service music education students an authentic and supported teacher preparation context. The band is a fun and friendly introduction to ensemble collaboration and musicianship for students grades 7-10 with a minimum of 1 year's experience. No application or audition is necessary. All local band students (grades 7-10) are invited to participate and develop musical artistry over a period of 8 weeks through small and large group work. 

We are delighted to welcome the help of the JMU chapter of CoVMEA (Collegiate Virginia Music Educators Association), who have supported the launch of the JMU MS Lab Band since the beginning. The support has allowed us to offer this enrichment program at no cost for ALL STUDENTS. 

The JMU Lab Band rehearses from 6:30-8:30pm on Tuesdays in the Forbes 1115 Rehearsal Room (147 Warsaw Ave, Harrisonburg, VA 22807) and the JMU Music Building (880 S. Main St, Harrisonburg, VA 22807) from February-April. Rehearsals include sectionals, large group rehearsals, and individualized musicianship lessons. 

The Spring Concert Cycle begins on Tuesday, February 4th. The registration deadline is Friday, January 31st, 2025.

Register for Spring 2025 Lab Band