About Us

The Providence High School Band program, steeped in a rich history of quality music education and outstanding performances, is a comprehensive band program that consists of three Concert Ensembles (Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Concert Band), a Marching Band (The Pride of Providence),a Percussion Ensemble, Jazz Band, and various chamber ensembles. The program, which began in 1989 with the opening of Providence High School, serves over 200 students.

The Providence Bands have been led by several outstanding band directors whose leadership and service to music education have been noted in the South Central District and throughout the state of North Carolina. Ms. Kathryn T. Kilroy currently serves as the Director of Bands at Providence High School. Dr. Robert Maddox (1989-2000) was the first band director at PHS, followed by Mr. Ron Payne (2000-2006), Mr. Paul Jackson (2006-2012), Mr. Joshua K. Potter (2012-2022), and Mr. Nicholas W. Blackwood (2022-2024). In addition to these Directors, several tremendous music educators have served as the Assistant Director of Bands.

Since its inception, the Providence HS Band program has consistently earned Superior Ratings and First Place Awards in numerous Marching Band Contests and at the North Carolina South Central District Bandmasters Association’s Concert Ensemble Music Performance Adjudication. The Pride of Providence Marching Band travels throughout North Carolina each fall, performing and competing. It attended its first Bands of America Regional Championship in the fall of 2013, where The Pride became the first band from Charlotte to earn a finalist position.

On two occasions, the Providence Wind Ensemble performed by invitation at the NC Music Educators Conference. In 2003, the Ensemble performed under the direction of Mr. Payne, and in 2013, under the direction of Mr. Potter. In 2017, also under the direction of Mr. Potter, the Wind Ensemble was invited to perform at the "Music for All Southeastern Regional Concert Festival" in Atlanta, Georgia.

Students from PHS bands consistently place in the South Central District All-District Bands, the North Carolina All-State Honor Bands, and university honor bands across the southeast. Additionally, students have earned spots in the NAfME Army All-American Marching Band. Several band alums are now working on music degrees in colleges and universities and performing with ensembles across the United States.