CIS Drives Music Excellence in GBA

The curtain has just closed on the Greater Bay Area International Schools Honor Band Concert 2025, where 31 talented musicians from CIS joined peers from eight other international schools to form a remarkable ensemble. CIS students took on leading roles across key sections—including flute, piccolo, percussion, trombone, euphonium, and tuba—serving as principals and assistant principals. After only two days of intensive rehearsals, they delivered a performance that was both meticulously arranged and deeply expressive.

Just a week earlier, CIS hosted our own Secondary Music Concert, featuring students from Grades 6 through 12. Their high-level orchestral performance once again highlighted the strength of CIS's music program. We are immensely proud of the artistry and discipline our students continue to demonstrate. 

A Regional Celebration of Music, Backed by World-Class Partners

This year's Honor Band Concert, initiated and organized by CIS and hosted at NCPA, brought together 105 outstanding students from 9 international schools. We were honored to receive support from Steingraeber Pianos, one of Germany’s most prestigious piano brands.

Adding further distinction, internationally renowned performer, conductor, and music educator Dr. Zachary Buie served as guest conductor. Having toured extensively around the world guiding young musicians, Dr. Buie led our honor band students with the rigor of a professional orchestra, expanding their artistic horizons and deepening their passion for excellence in music.

"I have worked with many international schools, but CIS students truly stand out." 

--Dr. Zachary Buie   

Praise from International Maestro

After working closely with CIS students during rehearsals and performances, Dr. Buie offered glowing praise:

"In just a few days, I witnessed their remarkable enthusiasm and talent, as well as the astonishing growth and insight of CIS students from Grades 6 to 12. Their focus and pursuit of excellence rival that of conservatory students."

What impressed him most was the unique breadth of CIS students’ interests:

"While coaching a trombone player, I saw not only musical talent but also a deep curiosity in physics and mathematics. The spark in his eyes when we discovered new ways to enhance musical expression was unforgettable."

Leading Music Education in the Greater Bay Area

Dr. Buie stressed how demanding the repertoire was, requiring our students to master challenging pieces in a short time—a goal they accomplished with great success.

"This kind of high-level, cross-school collaboration is invaluable. Watching students from diverse cultural backgrounds refine their skills together embodies the very essence of music education."

He also praised CIS's exceptional facilities and abundant resources, affirming that these have been instrumental in nurturing students' talents and fostering their growth.

"CIS's music classrooms are fully equipped for professional teaching, with a wide range of well-maintained instruments and room for future growth. 

Even compared to schools in the U.S., CIS stands out. 

With visiting professors and masterclasses, students gain not only technical skills but also invaluable real-world experience and a global artistic perspective."

--Dr. Zachary Buie

The Lasting Impact of CIS Music Education

At CIS, music is a cornerstone of holistic education. Starting from Grade 5, every student is required to learn at least one instrument—not to produce professional musicians, but to cultivate focus, discipline, and teamwork through rigorous orchestral training. These qualities extend far beyond music, preparing students to thrive in any field.

The influence of CIS's music program now resonates across the Greater Bay Area, setting new benchmarks for music education. Our students continue to demonstrate leadership and artistry on international stages, while alumni shine at top universities worldwide. One recent graduate was admitted to Carnegie Mellon University for a dual degree in Music and Computer Science—joining a program that has produced Grammy and Tony Award winners. We are also proud to share that another student has enrolled at Berklee College of Music, one of the world's most prestigious institutions for contemporary music. 

Through large-scale, high-level international music exchanges, CIS is actively shaping the future of arts education, reinforcing our commitment to holistic development and excellence.