Located in Tuscaloosa, AL, Hillcrest High School is home to one of Alabama's premiere instrumental music programs. Within the Band Department, students have opportunities to participate in the Patriot Marching Band, Jazz Band, Concert Band, and Wind Ensemble; students also participate in various chamber groups. Students involved in the program consistently place high in the All-State Festival Honor Bands, District and State level honor bands, solo and ensemble contests, and other events around the state. Most recently, the Wind Ensemble has been invited to perform with the US-China Cultural Exchange Program. The band will depart at the end of May, 2011 for a 10-day performing excursion in Beijing, China.

In 2009, the Wind Ensemble was selected as a performer for the Midwest Clinic , an annual and highly acclaimed Band and Orchestra Directors week-long clinic. The students performed along with several other invited ensembles, including the United States Coast Guard Band and the Eastman Wind Ensemble. In 2010, the Wind Ensemble performed at the Southern Division of the College Band Director's National Association Conference in Mississippi.

The Hillcrest bands are tirelessly supported by the Hillcrest High School Band Boosters, whose never ending work helps make it possible for all members of the bands to participate in these and other events throughout the year. In addition, many thanks are offered to the Administration, Faculty, and Community of Hillcrest High School. We can always count on support from these individuals, and that has been key to the continued success of the Band Program.

The Bands are under the Direction Mr. Andy Pettus, assisted by Mr. Nick Smith.