Students in Athens City Schools have the opportunity to join the band program beginning in 5th grade at East, West, Morrison-Gordon and The Plains Elementary Schools. Students start on flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone and percussion. The band meets once a week during the school day at the students’ elementary schools. Students also have the opportunity to sign up for private lessons outside of school, including at the Athens Community Music School at Ohio University’s School of Music. The 5th and 6th grade bands perform a December concert during an in-school assembly and also perform at the Athens City Schools All Band Concert in May. The elementary bands are directed by Brandon Lias and assisted by Aaron Backes.