When I first set out to design this year’s marching show, Paradise: Born of Fire, the intent was simply to depict the creation of the Hawaiian Islands. With the band traveling to Hawaii this spring, I wanted the show to be something meaningful and relatable for the students. But over time, it has evolved into something far deeper. This show has come to represent perseverance through disaster, hope through heartache, and joy through challenges.
The students have truly brought this vision to life. They embraced every demand, rose to every challenge, and their dedication has been rewarded. At our final rehearsal of the year, we honored our seniors—those who have given so much to this program and trusted in its leadership. It is because of them, and their commitment, that we achieved all we did this season.
I believe wholeheartedly in this activity and its power to shape young people into better humans. If it were just notes, rhythms, and formations, it would be easy. But it’s so much more. It’s hard work, but it’s work I believe in. I believe that what we’re doing is making a positive impact on our students, and the sacrifices we make are worth the rewards we see in them.
The commitment all season from our band parents, administrators, students, and community members has been amazing. Please know that we need you all to achieve these successes. The end crowns the work. Thank you for your work and for your dedication to all creating my visions and going along with my crazy ideas.
Around this time of year, I always have people ask me if I am excited about my “off season.” If they only knew! Onto the next!
Students, YOU DID IT. You. did. it. Man, so proud. So blessed. All the things.
6A Alabama Marching Band CHAMPIONS!!
Overall Guard
Overall Percussion
Overall Music
Overal Visual
Overall General Effect
92.78
This week in band:
Monday – 4th Block Rehearsal (Veteran’s Day Music), MSMS Fall Concert @ 6PM, I could use about 6 volunteers to help that evening.
Tuesday – 4th Block Rehearsal, 6PM Winter Guard Interest Meeting and Show Announcement
Wednesday – 4th Block Rehearsal
Thursday – 4th Block Rehearsal, Veteran’s Program @ 6PM
Friday – 4th Block, listen to state tapes, then practice for chair auditions, Round One Playoff Game at Home against Mortimer Jordan. 5:15 call time. 7:00 kickoff.
Veteran’s Day Program
5:40 – Call Time
Dress – concert attire (tuxedos and all black for girls) OR dress nicely. All concert band students should have official concert attire before the Christmas Concert!
6:00 – Concert begins
This program should not last longer than an hour.
Upcoming Events
11/5 Winter Guard Interest Meeting – 6PM
11/7 Veteran’s Concert – 6PM
11/12 Band Booster Meeting – 6:30PM
11/14 Chair Audition Submissions Due
11/12,14,18-20 Winter Guard Auditions – 3:30-5:30
Citrus Delivered (Date TBA)
11/25-29 Thanksgiving Break
12/5 Christmas Parade
12/13-14 Winter Guard Camp
12/12 Christmas Concert
12/15-16 Band Physical Testing
12/17-21 Director’s Gone to Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, Finals
