Dear Athens Drive band parents,

I’m going to try something new this semester… A brief “doc letter” summarizing some of the band happenings and keeping you in the loop regarding schedules, etc.  I realize that this is a relatively “quiet” time for the band as our giant Marching Band–our most visible ensemble–is inactive.  However, there is a great amount of activity happening “in the house.”  In fact, as all successful teams know, it is what happens in the “off-season” that determines the strength of the pack!

So here’s some stuff:

Tues., Feb. 5   Band Booster Meeting at 7:30pm.  It will only last an hour and will be filled with current info including our Spring Trip to Busch Gardens and the London Trip.  We’ll keep you in the loop about our concert schedules, including state band contest, winter guard, winter percussion, and jazz ensemble.  We may even have some students performing!!!

People create ENERGY–and I miss all of you!  In the spring I don’t get to see you much, so show up and say HI to me!  I need your energy!  We are also beginning to plan for next year’s board and committee positions.  It is CRITICAL that you get involved, even in a small way.  PLEASE DO NOT TAKE THIS PROGRAM FOR GRANTED!  It was built by an extraordinary amount of parent involvement  and it will only last/grow if it is continuously nurtured.  Plus, I’ll make you laugh…and we have food…

Sat., Feb. 2  Winter Guard Performance at Cleveland H.S. at 3:45pm  Hey, I know that this is a relatively small group compared to our concert ensembles and marching band, but they represent OUR PROGRAM and always do a “first-class” job.  I am so proud of them!  Please consider dropping by and routing them on!  It’s their first performance and they must gain experience to be successful–we all do!  It’s a nice ride out to Johnston County (jo-ko).  I love it there…some nice golf courses too:)

Did you know that 13 of our students made the district honor band and performed last weekend at UNC Chapel Hill?

Brian Suh, Gavin Foley, Ana Altman, Brennan Robbins, Wes Major, Ben Wakeford, Parker Dingman, Derek Geiger, Kaylin McClafferty, Will Wakeford, Ian Chang, Ashwath Kapilavai, Tyrone Williamson.

…And 6 made the UNCG Honor Band who will be rehearsing/performing Feb. 14-16…

Nia Alston, Gavin Foley, Derek Geiger, Kailee Hughes, Cooper Sykes, Taylor Woodhouse

This kids are really “all-stars” and are terrific ambassadors to our outstanding program!

See you all on Tuesday evening!  It will be LIT!