The Iolani Performing Arts Department offers 5 band classes with over 200 wind and percussion players in the program.  At the Lower School level (Grade 6) students are given the opportunity to learn certain wind instruments - flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, baritone and tuba.  This is an exploratory program centered around class activities.  The students learn fundamental skills and learn to read notes and rhythms.

The class is divided into brass and woodwind sections and is taught by two of the band teachers, meeting three times per week.  Specialists are sometimes brought in to work with small groups of students, reinforcing techniques specific to each instrument.  Students enjoy individual attention within the group setting.

Skills developed at this level lay the foundation for advancement into the Upper School Band 1 program when students become seventh graders.  If students do exceptionally well, they may be selected to play in Band 2 and may also be invited to play with one of the orchestras, exposing them to a rich symphonic orchestra program.