The Fort Payne Wildcat Marching Band (FPMB) is one of the most recognized and celebrated ensembles at Fort Payne High School. The FPMB performs at all football games and participates in multiple contests and parades during the Fall season. Students in grades 9–12 may participate and do not need prior experience, but must be willing to learn an instrument and participate in a concert ensemble.

The FPMB consistently earns Superior Ratings and Best in Class awards. They placed in the top 2 at each contest this past season and earned Best in Class Guard, Percussion, and Band.

The Fort Payne Visual Ensemble (FPVE) provides the visual elements for the Marching Band, using dance, flags, rifles, and other props to enhance the performance. Students do not need instrumental experience to participate. Any student in grades 8–12 may join.

Auditions are held every spring. Students who try out for specialties (dancers, majorettes, etc.) must complete one year of marching on an instrument OR on the Color Guard, unless they have completed a season of Winterguard.

The Wind Ensemble is the top concert ensemble at FPHS and is an audition-only group. Members perform a minimum of three home concerts and participate in state-sponsored events and assessments.

All Wind Ensemble members are required to participate in the Marching Band as well. Most recently, the ensemble earned “Superiors with Distinction” at the State Music Performance Assessment held at Gadsden City High School.

The Concert Band is another audition-based concert ensemble at FPHS. Members perform a minimum of two home concerts and participate in state-sponsored events and assessments.

Students in Concert Band are also required to participate in the Marching Band.

The Fort Payne High School Winterguard performs during the winter and spring seasons and has earned a strong reputation for excellence. Their performances are considered “must-see” events at competitions.

Winterguard membership is audition-based and open to students in grade 7 or higher. Membership in Visual Ensemble is not required, and Winterguard participation does not guarantee a spot in the Visual Ensemble.