Our Program
The North Lincoln High School Band Program is consistently recognized as one of the most accomplished band programs in the Charlotte region and the state of North Carolina. The concert bands and jazz bands have earned superior and excellent ratings for 15 straight years at regional, state, and national festivals.
The 100+ member marching band, nicknamed the 'Band of Knights,' consistently earns Grand Champion and first place awards at regional and state marching contests. Our award-winning Indoor Percussion and Winter Guard programs regularly compete on the state and national level.
Directors & Staff
Matt Minick
NLHS Director of Bands
Matt Minick is a 1989 Magna Cum Laude graduate of East Carolina University with a degree in music education and is a National Board certified teacher. A member of the 1987 World Champion Garfield Cadets, he writes music arrangements for bands across North Carolina and Virginia.
Jennifer Burhans
NLMS Director of Bands
Jennifer Burhans is a native of Lincoln County and the current Band Director at North Lincoln Middle School. A graduate of Western Carolina University with degrees in Music Education and Music, she is passionate about bringing her energy and dedication back to the programs that first inspired her.
Andrew Quillen
Hornline Instructor
Andrew Quillen was an original member of the Band of Knights and a member of the school's first graduating class in 2005. He joined the staff in 2008 and also serves as the public address announcer for the Roundtable Tournament of Bands.
Nikki Parker & Kaylee Biggers
Color Guard Instructors
Nikki and Kaylee are graduates of A.L. Brown High School. Both have spun in WGI with The District Presented by Étude, Étude A and Étude World. They are thrilled to join the Band of Knights color guard staff.
Our Ensembles
Marching Band
The Band of Knights Marching Band is the flagship ensemble of our program. Performing at all home football games, regional competitions, and the annual Roundtable Tournament, our marching band consistently earns superior ratings.
- 150+ members
- Competition season: August–November
- Multiple state championship appearances
Concert Bands
Our concert band program includes the Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble. Students develop their musicianship through challenging repertoire and perform at school concerts, festivals, and MPA evaluations.
Sub-ensembles: Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble
- Year-round rehearsals
- Annual MPA evaluations
- Spring concert series
Jazz Bands
The jazz program features the Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Orchestra. Students explore jazz styles from swing to contemporary, performing at school events, community venues, and jazz festivals.
Sub-ensembles: Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Orchestra
- Weekly rehearsals
- Jazz festival performances
- Community outreach concerts
Winter Ensembles
Our winter program includes Indoor Percussion and Winter Guard. These ensembles compete in the WGI circuit and regional competitions during the winter and spring seasons.
Sub-ensembles: Indoor Percussion, Winter Guard
- Competition season: January–April
- WGI circuit participation
- Regional and national competitions
Future Knights
Are you a middle school student interested in joining the Band of Knights? Our feeder program at North Lincoln Middle School prepares students for success in high school band.
Learn about our middle school program