The Fort Payne Wildcat Marching Band

The Fort Payne Wildcat Marching Band is one of the most popular and publicly known ensembles at Fort Payne High School. The FPMB performs at all football games and participates in multiple contests and parades throughout the Fall season. The FPMB is comprised of band members grades 9-12. Members do not have to have previous band experience to participate, but must be interested in learning an instrument, and participate in a concert ensemble.

The FPMB is a recipient of a multitude of awards each year. They continuously earn Superior Ratings and Best In Class awards. They were in the top 2 at each contest for the past season, earning Best in Class Guard, Percussion, and Band.

Visual Ensemble

The Fort Payne Visual Ensemble is a vital part of the Marching Band. The FPVE provides the visual accompaniment for the Marching Band. They utilize dance, flags, rifles, and other props to enhance the performance. Students do not have to be instrumentalists to participate. Any student in grades 8-12 is encouraged to participate. Auditions are held every spring. Students trying out for any specialties (dancers, majorettes, etc…) must complete 1 year of marching on either an instrument OR the Colorguard. The only exception is if they have completed a season of Winterguard.

The Wind Ensemble is the top level concert ensemble at Fort Payne High School. The Wind Ensemble is an audition only ensemble, meaning students audition for membership. The Wind Ensemble also performs a minimum of three "home" concerts and participates in state-sponsored assessments and events. Students that are members of the Wind Ensemble are required to participate in the Marching Band as well. Most recently, the band earned Superiors with Distinction at the State Music Performance Assessment held at Gadsden City High School.

The Concert Band is another performing concert ensemble. Membership is also audition based. The Concert Band also performs a minimum of two "home" concerts and participates in State sponsored assessments and events. Students that are members of Concert Band are required to participate in the Marching Band as well.

The Fort Payne High School Winterguard is a group that performs in the off-season and has earned many accolades. The Winterguard has earned a reputation for excellence and is a group that many see as "required" viewing at competition. As the name suggests they perform and compete in the winter/spring months. It is audition based and acceptance is not guaranteed by previous performance. The Winterguard is open to any student that is in grade 7 or higher. Membership in Visual Ensemble is not required, nor does Winterguard membership guarantee a Visual Ensemble position.