Overview​
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Along with the marching band, there are two symphonic large ensembles, the SWD Wind Symphony and the SWD Symphonic Band. There are also two concert bands, a jazz ensemble, and various small instrumental ensembles.
The Georgia Music Educators Association has rated the bands and ensembles superior in performance for twenty three consecutive years. Students in the band program consistently place high and in large numbers in the District IV Honor Bands. About 20% of honor band participants yearly are from the Southwest Dekalb High School Band Program.
The Southwest Dekalb HS Band is also represented at the GMEA All-State Bands, the Georgia Governor's Honors Program, The Atlanta Youth Wind Symphony, the Metro Atlanta Youth Wind Ensemble/ Symphony Orchestra and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s Talent Development Program.