Highlander Marching Band – All members of the HP Band, including woodwinds, brass, pit percussion, drum line, and color guard, are members of the marching band in the fall semester. This ensemble performs at all home and away football games, parades and scheduled marching contests. Since the full band is divided into first and second periods, the full marching band rehearses each morning from 7:00-8:00 am on the football field next to the band hall. Other rehearsals may be scheduled outside of these times for clinicians or guest directors.

Wind Ensemble - The members of this ensemble demonstrate the highest level of musical maturity, technical proficiency, and a commitment to detailed rehearsal and disciplined individual practice. Students seriously pursue both individual and group goals as they work together to achieve musical excellence. Students in this ensemble are required to audition for the All Region Band in the fall and to perform at the UIL Solo and Ensemble Contest in the spring. Wind Ensemble members are strongly encouraged to take private lessons once a week.

Symphonic Band – The members of this ensemble demonstrate a growing musical maturity, as well as a commitment to detailed group rehearsal and disciplined individual practice, in order to reach their musical potential. Students in this ensemble are strongly encouraged to audition for the All Region Band in the fall, to perform at the UIL Solo and Ensemble Contest in the spring, and to take private lessons once a week. Private lessons are the key to the development of musical and technical excellence and are encouraged for all band students.

Jazz Band - This ensemble meets both semesters and rehearses once a week after school – membership is voluntary. The idiom of jazz music is a product of American creativity and a valuable outlet for young people to be musically expressive in several styles.

Highlander Bagpipes (Piper Corps) – This ensemble has a long, rich, and unique history at Highland Park High School and holds a special place in the hearts of all who have ever been a student at HP. The Pipers Corps is an auxiliary unit of the HPHS Band and is under the direct supervision of the band directors. These students represent HPHS at athletic events, private gatherings, and major community functions. This group meets to rehearse after school once a week.