Because of the school’s small size, student musicians get more playing time in school ensembles than they would at a larger school. And although there are separate classes for middle and high school students, advanced middle-school musicians are often invited to play in concerts with the high school orchestra and jazz band. By the time they’re upperclassmen, many MHS musicians have been playing together in school ensembles for years, leading not only to fast friendships, but also to exceptionally tight performances.

Malibu High’s ensembles routinely earn “superior” and “excellent” ratings at the Southern California School Band and Orchestra Association (SCSBOA) Festival. The High School Jazz Band has twice placed first at the Fullerton Jazz Festival, and has also taken first place at the Valencia Super Jazz Festival. Other performance opportunities for MHS musicians include the annual Winter and Spring concerts, often with guest conductors and arrangers from the Malibu community, and a Masterworks concert in collaboration with the school’s Choral Music Department. And, in a highlight of the school year, instrumental music students play the score for the High School Theater Department’s spring musical.