About the Berkmar Band Program
Vision Statement
It is the vision of the Berkmar band program to grow musically and physically by the year 2025. The program will consist of the Marching Band, Symphonic Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band and chamber ensembles. The band program will continue its local presence and also represent regionally, nationally, and internationally.
Mission Statement
It is the mission of Berkmar Bands to create the best possible music experiences through its offerings that would foster pride, dignity, respect and discipline in the development of young musicians and scholars.
The Bands of Berkmar
The Berkmar High School Band Program is a comprehensive band program that currently serves over 150 students. The BHS Band program serves its students through a variety of offerings that include the Mighty Marching Patriots, Symphonic Band, Concert Band, Percussion Ensemble, Jazz Band, and Majestic Essence Flag and Danceteam. The band program is locally, regionally, and nationally recognized.
School and Community
Berkmar is nestled in the growing community of Lilburn, between Interstate 85 and Georgia Highway 29, at 405 Pleasant Hill Road. Berkmar is the product of the consolidation of Lilburn and Bethesda high schools. These were the last of 10 high schools to be consolidated in Gwinnett County. Since there was such great rivalry between these schools, it took several years to agree upon a name and a location for the new high school. The school’s name was derived by combining part of the voting districts’ names of Berkshire and Martins, using ‘Berk’ and ‘Mar’ to get Berkmar. The first school term opened in the fall of 1966, and at that time the student body selected the ‘Patriot’ as its official mascot, and the school colors of red, white and blue.