Cal High Marching Grizzlies

Continuing a proud tradition of excellence, the California High School Marching Ensemble stands as one of the premier marching units in the Tri-Valley area. As the largest performance group at Cal High, the ensemble is known for its spirited performances, musical precision, and history of competitive success. You can catch them energizing the crowd at football games, lighting up school rallies, bringing joy to local parades, and showcasing their talent at field competitions throughout the year. The Marching Ensemble rehearses during the Fall on Monday and Wednesday evenings, as well as some Saturday mornings and afternoons. The band typically competes in 4-5 field competitions, marches 1-2 parades, and performs at rallies and home football games.

Awards
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1st Place Overall - 2024 NCBA 4A Division: Liberty Field Show
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2nd Place Colorguard - 2024 NCBA 4A Div: Liberty Field Show
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2nd Place Percussion - 2024 NCBA 4A Div: Liberty Field Show
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2nd Place Colorguard - 2024 NCBA 4A Div: Foothill Band Review
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1st Place Field - 2024 NCBA 4A Div: Lodi Grape Bowl Classic
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3rd Place Percussion - 2024 NCBA 4A Div: Lodi Grape Bowl Classic
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1st Place General Effect - 2023 NCBA 2A Div Liberty Band Review
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1st Place Overall - 2023 NCBA 2A Div Liberty Band Review
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1st Place Field - 2023 NCBA 2A Div Foothill Band Review
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1st Place Percussion - 2023 NCBA 2A Div Foothill Band Review
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2nd Place Brass - 2023 NCBA 2A Div Foothill Band Review
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3rd Place Woodwinds - 2023 NCBA 2A Div Foothill Band Review
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3rd Place Colorguard - 2023 NCBA 2A Div Foothill Band Review
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1st Place Field - 2023 NCBA 2A Div: Lodi Grape Bowl Classic

DRUMLINE
Snare, Tenor & Bass Drums
Drumline is a high-energy performance ensemble made up of battery and front ensemble percussionists. The battery section features snare drums, tenor drums, and bass drums, providing the driving rhythm and visual impact in field shows, parades, and school spirit events. As a core part of the marching band, the drumline develops students’ musical and technical skills through regular rehearsals, performances, and competitions. Open to all percussionists, it offers a dynamic team experience that builds coordination, discipline, and school pride.

HORNLINE
Woodwind and Brass Instruments
Hornline is the core melodic and harmonic section of the marching band, made up of woodwind instruments such as flutes, clarinets, and saxophones, and brass instruments including trumpets, mellophones, trombones, baritones, and tubas. This powerful ensemble brings energy and expression to field shows, parades, and school performances. Hornline members build strong fundamentals in tone, technique, and teamwork while performing challenging and exciting music throughout the season.

FRONT ENSEMBLE
Mallet Keyboard and Auxiliary Percussion
Front Ensemble is an essential part of the marching band, featuring mallet keyboard instruments such as marimba, vibraphone, and xylophone, along with a wide range of auxiliary percussion including cymbals, tambourines, concert bass drum, and more. Positioned at the front of the field, this group adds depth, texture, and melodic elements to the overall performance. Students in the front ensemble develop strong musicianship, coordination, and ensemble skills while contributing to dynamic field shows and competitions.

COLOR GUARD
Dance & Spin Flags, Sabers and Rifles
Color Guard adds visual artistry and impact to the marching band through a vibrant blend of dance and precision equipment work. Members learn to spin flags, sabers, and rifles, combining movement and choreography to bring music to life on the field. Performing in all field shows, parades, and competitions, the color guard enhances the overall performance with energy, expression, and creativity. No prior experience is required, just a passion for performance and a willingness to learn.
Course description can be found in the handbook and UC/CSU
admissions info can be found on the district website.
For more information about the Marching Grizzlies, contact the Band Director Mr. Grigas at rgrigas@srvusd.net

























