BAND

News from Mr. North

The 2007-2008 school year is off to a great start.  I am very pleased with the progress we have made so far this year and I am excited about what the next few months will bring.

 

I am pleased to announce that both C-Jay Mateo is back as our percussion instructor and Jonnette Dangerfield is back writing our color guard routines.  Michael Wootton will return this year as our honor band coordinator. Michael will be working with students helping them prepare their Capitol Section, NCBA and CBDA honor band CD’s. I am also happy to announce that we are currently working with the school district to add a jazz director position.  I am also in the process of ordering new instruments and recording equipment financed with the Governors’ block grants.  We have already received a new pro Cannon Ball, Tenor Sax, with two pro Alto Saxes, and a new pro Baritone Sax on order. All of this is possible due to the continuing support of our school and district administration.

 

This year’s marching band and color guard, a bit smaller, is shaping up and promises to be a top notch band and guard.  This year under the direction of Drum Major, Senior Kelsey Hamm, the band and guard will be performing “The Mad Major” by Alfred.  The fall percussion under the direction of C-Jay Mateo will be performing “Siesta”, a fiery percussion feature. I hope all of you plan on attending all of our fall competitions to cheer on all the students.

 

We have many exciting performances planned for the school year.  Please take a moment to review the calendar.  I also want to give you a heads up that there will be some minor expenses for this year’s Jazz Ensembles, both A and B.  The Delta college Jazz Festival trip will cost approximately $30.00 per student to cover the cost of dinner and the evening concert by the “Yellow Jackets”.  Both winter percussion and winter guard will have some costs, so please plan a head.  Currently students may raise money by selling Entertainment books.  Students receive $16.00 credit for each $40.00 book they sell.  Books may be checked out during jazz band and marching band classes.

 

In closing I want to encourage all of you to get involved with our wonderful WHS Band and Guard Booster Organization.  Without the support of this group we would be unable to do any of the extras.  Thanks parents for all your support.