The HAHS Marching Cougar Band consists of students in grades 9-12 and performs throughout the school year in parades, field show routine, community and holiday celebrations, and for dignitaries, such as Governor Rendell, President George W. Bush, and others who visit our area. The group also travels each year to perform in such places as Chicago, Boston, and Florida, to name a few. The students work hard on everything from marching skills, instrument technique, color guard technique, social skills, and team work. During the school year, the group meets everyday as a class to rehearse and for after school practices as well. Our goal is to improve every student’s ability to perform music, integrate their skills as a team effort, and enjoy public performance, as personal growth and self-esteem become positive lifetime learning essentials. The group is under the direction of Neil Forte III, Sandra Hoppey, assistant director, and Lauren Walawender, color guard director.

                 The HAHS Jazz Ensemble consists of students 9-12 who must audition to enter the group. The ensemble performs for various community celebrations and organizations throughout the school year. The students meet each week after school for rehearsal from October till the end of the year. The jazz ensemble also travels to festivals to be judged on their performance and meet with student musicians from other schools. The group is comprised of four sections: saxophones, trumpets, trombones, and rhythm (piano, guitar, bass guitar, drums, auxiliary percussion). Our goal is to provide exposure to varying jazz styles, encourage self-expression through improvisation, and enjoy the benefits of public performance. Jazz ensemble is under the direction of Neil Forte III.