Music

The Out-of-Door Academy Pep Band is more than a collection of musicians—it is the driving pulse of school spirit and pride. Reigniting tradition at Homecoming 2024 with the triumphant return of both the band and the iconic ODA fight song, Roll on Thunder, this spirited ensemble has reestablished itself as a core part of campus life.

Open to passionate Middle and Upper School student musicians, the pep band welcomes those with strong rhythmic precision, ensemble awareness, and the energy to electrify every performance. Together, they fuel the Thunder spirit, transforming each appearance into a celebration of community, tradition, and the unifying power of music.

The ODA Jazz Ensemble cultivates musical excellence, creativity, and collaboration through the study and performance of jazz. As a group, students deepen their understanding of improvisation, ensemble dynamics, and jazz history while developing the confidence and discipline that come from live performance. The ensemble serves as both a learning environment and a platform for artistic expression, encouraging students to connect with each other and their community through music.

Each year, this journey culminates in Jazz Under the Stars, a signature performance held at Waterside Park in Lakewood Ranch. This highly anticipated event showcases the ensemble’s hard work and growth, bringing together families, educators, and neighbors for an evening of soulful rhythms and vibrant melodies. With the sounds of brass, percussion, electric guitar, and keyboard set against a sunset backdrop, Jazz Under the Stars transforms the park into a celebration of talent, dedication, and the enduring spirit of jazz.

The Percussion Ensemble is a high-energy group that brings rhythm to life through powerful drumming. As an extension of the Pep Band, the ensemble plays a key role in energizing school events, fueling school spirit, and amplifying the crowd’s excitement. With a focus on timing, precision, and teamwork, the members craft dynamic beats that are as impactful as they are exciting.

Advanced Choir is a group of highly skilled vocal artists whose dedication and artistry shine through in every performance. With a diverse repertoire ranging from classical to contemporary, these students consistently earn Excellent and Superior ratings at state Music Performance Assessments, showcasing their mastery of vocal technique, harmony, and expression. Their performances, filled with passion and precision, not only captivate audiences but also inspire a tradition of excellence within the school community.

Available to Middle and Upper School students dedicated to mastering the art of orchestral performance, the Advanced Strings Ensemble cultivates technical excellence, expressive musicality, and a deep commitment to ensemble collaboration. These students possess advanced sight-reading skills, nuanced interpretive abilities, and a disciplined approach to practice—often developed through years of private instruction and participation in prestigious programs such as the Sarasota Youth Orchestra.

The ensemble explores a rich and challenging repertoire, from classical works to cinematic scores, and shares their artistry through performances that serve both community enrichment and meaningful service. Many members aim for high achievement in Orchestra Musical Performance Assessments, viewing excellence not just as a goal, but as a responsibility to their craft and audience.