Contra Costa County High School Honor Band History

The Contra Costa County High School Honor Band was founded in 1991 by Norman Dea and Rick Meyer; both of whom were long time band directors in the Acalanes Union High School District. The first honor band consisted of 82 student musicians who were nominated by their band director. Rehearsals for the first group were held in the Acalanes High School band room under the baton of Steve Connolly who served as band director at Cloverdale High School. The inaugural event culminated with a concert on February 9, 1991, in the Las Lomas High School Gymnasium.

Beginning in 1992, acceptance into the honor band has been by live audition. Each year, the responsibility of hosting auditions, rehearsals, and the performance rotates between the Acalanes Union High School District, Mt. Diablo Unified School District, and San Ramon Valley Unified School District.

Today the band consists of a balanced instrumentation of approximately 80-90 students representing five different school districts and several private schools. The honor band experience is designed to be concentrated and rigorous with students rehearsing with the guest conductor for over twelve hours over the course of three days. The Contra Costa County High School Honor Band is a tribute to the wonderful musicians and dedicated band directors that make up the various band programs in our county.