Contemporary - the Contemporary Ensemble, led by Mr. Terence Hobdy, is comprised of vocalists, horns, and a rhythm section. 

Gospel- The Gospel ensemble is led by Geno Young and performs uplifting gospel music.

Jazz Combo - The BTW Jazz Combos have a long history of excellence, and is led by Terence Hobdy

Jazz Orchestra is led by Art Ruangtip, delivering Big Band sound with a powerhouse horns and rhythm section.

Jazz Singers are a jazz/contemporary group who have an opportunity to experiment with various vocal stylings and perform the hippest of selections!

Latin - The Latin American Ensemble performs works not only from the Afro-Cuban tradition (commonly designated as “salsa”), but of all other continental traditions (Brazil, Puerto Rico, etc.) 

MIDI - The MIDI Ensemble is BTW's Fusion Ensemble

Booker T Washington HSPVA is the DISD magnet school for the performing and visual arts, and is one of the top high schools in the nation for the study of music.  The BTW Music Conservatory offers a wide range of interests for the music student.  These interests include classical and jazz studies with extensive courses in vocal music, instrumental music, music composition and music theory. Students pursue a core course of study with additional electives.

Awards and Honors

The BTWHSPVA Music Conservatory has received national recognition and state honors since our inception in 1976.

• Five Time Grammy Signature School Winner
• Major performances at Carnegie Hall and the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Hall
• More than 200 Student Downbeat Awards
• More than 30 Grammy Awards by our Alumni
• Multiple Grand Champion Awards at the Monterrey Jazz Festival
• National Scholars of the Arts recipients
• National Invitational Festival Best in Class Awards and Grand Champion Awards from our Choral, Orchestra and Wind Ensemble programs
• TMEA Texas All State Students in Choral, Jazz, Orchestra and Wind Studies
• UIL State Solo and Ensemble Outstanding Musician Awards
• UIL Sweepstakes Awards for Choral, Orchestra and Wind Ensemble

Our faculty are some of the most respected professional musicians and educators in the nation. ​