Staff
Current Staff
Jay Miller-Director
Megan Miller-Assistant Director / Drill Writer
Cathy Jones-Color Guard Instructor
Past Directors
Les Soldwell
1933-1938
Carl Roberts
1938-1944
Jerold Reed
spring of 1944
Bernard Black
1945-1955
Edon Matthews
1956
Lenvil Dicks
1957-1966
Dean Cassels
1967-1970
William Agrella
1970-1971
Mark McHenry Sr.
1971-1975
Steve Hentzelman
1975 - 1982
Tony Buzzella
1982 - 1985
David Holt
1985 - 1986
Mike Woodfin
1986 - 1990
Larry Hall
1990 - 1995
Steve Myers
1995 - 1996
Joseph N. Atkins
1996 - 2006
Ryan Schulz
2006 – 2015
Justin Hammis
2015-2016
Jay Miller
2016-present
Columbia Band History
This page is dedicated to all the individuals; directors, students, parents and
volunteers that have passed through the band program at Columbia High School.
Thank you for all you have done to make the program rich with tradition.
The Columbia High School Band began in the school year 1933 - 1934. From
1933 to 1938 the band was not part of the school curriculum, therefore having to
do all of the rehearsing after school. In 1938 the band was accredited and added
to the school curriculum. Since the inception of the band program, the band has
been housed in three different locations.
The first location being in a small wooden building constructed on the
corner of what now is the Columbia County School System Administrative Building.
The band room still exists which is currently used for the enrichment
program.
The second location is at what is now Richardson Middle School. The
school is located on Pennsylvania Avenue. 1960 marked the completion of this
facility, which would become known as Columbia High School. From 1960 until 1975
the school housed grades 10 - 12. The band room is located behind the
auditorium. When the room was constructed, it was considered one of the premier
band rooms of its time in North Florida. In school year 2000 -2001 the old
Columbia High School North campus received a face-lift and was transformed into
Richardson Middle School housing grades 6 - 8.
The third location is at Columbia High School South. The school is located
on Highway 41 South and State Road 252. The construction of this facility was
completed in 1975 and sported a much larger band room. This is where the band
program is housed today. The low drop ceiling and green carpeted walls created
an interesting rehearsal. In school year 2000 - 2001, Columbia High School South
made its first transition with the construction of the New Fort White Junior -
Senior High School. For the first time, CHS houses grades 9 - 12. During the
2000 - 2001 school year, the band room received a face lift. The ceiling was
raised with a beveled drop ceiling. The front wall of the room was treated for
sound leakage. New carpet was placed on the risers and the old green carpeted
walls were replaced.
It has been very hard to find specific information concerning the bands
activities from the beginning. Many directors have passed through the musical
strains played at CHS and with them went some history. If you have any old
photographs or information about our missing years, please forward it to us. We
will be glade to include it on our web page.
1970 - 1971 William Agrella, Director
1971 - 1975 Mark McHenry Sr., Director- Mr. McHenry was hired to take over
the Columbia High Band in May of 1971. He came to CHS knowing that building the
program would be an adventure. He believed that if the student could walk they
could play an instrument. During his tenure, many students walking outside the
band hall was asked to play an instrument. If the students was big enough and
could not play football, he/she was asked to play Tuba. Mr. McHenry began his
adventure with 25 students. Notable Information The band was featured on a
postcard. The picture was taken in front of the V.A. Hospital located in Lake
City, Florida. The cost of making the postcard was $150.00. The band traveled to
every away football game. Greyhound buses were used. It cost the band a total of
$575.00 to use three buses. Most of the away games were in Jacksonville,
Florida. The band participated in Gator Growl at The University of Florida and
the University's Homecoming parade. An annual car wash at Interstate 75 during
Love Bug Season. A annual trip for the whole band down Itchitucknee River. The
band practiced their marching routines at Melrose Park Elementary School. The
Drum Majors during this era was Kenny Hunter and David Cheney. 1972: The band
began with 25 members and quickly grew to 50 members by the end of the year. The
band performed in front of the Magic Castle at Disney World (Disney opened
October of 1971). 1973: The membership in the band began the year with 50
members and increased in number as the year went on. The band was so well liked,
they returned to Disney World to perform in front of the Magic Castle. Performed
at the grand opening of McDonalds in Lake City, Florida. They received a
donation of $500.00 from the restaurant. 1974: The band grew to 85 members.
1975: The band grew to 95 members. Mark McHenry Sr. left Columbia High School to
return to his home in Indiana. Later in his career, he became an Elementary
Principal. He retired from the education profession in 1999. Information
provided by: Mark McHenry Jr.
1975 - 1982 Steve Hentzelman, Director Mr. Hentzelman came to Columbia High
School after receiving a masters degree from the University of Florida. During
his tenure, the band accomplished the following: 1975: Participated in the
Gimbals Thanksgiving Parade in Pennsylvania. David Cheney, Drum Major. 1976:
Received Straight Superior Ratings. Kevin Holton, Drum Major 1978: Participated
in the University of Florida Homecoming Parade and "Gator Growl". Received a
Superior Rating at F.B.A. Concert Festival 1979: Participated in the Cherry
Blossom Festival in Washington D.C. 1982: Participated in the music festival in
Mexico City. Received Straight Superior Ratings. Information provided by Steve
Hentzelman
1982 - 1985 Tony Buzzella, Director 1982: (Fall) the band started the year
with 9 students. A tenth grade beginning band was added. The Tigerettes were
formed with the help of Rita Stratton and Sue Dorsett. The flag sponsor was
Tonita Orr. The year ended with an increase in the size of the band to 45
members 1983: The band started the year with 70 students. The band received
Excellent ratings at the FBA Festival. 1984: The first band camp was held at the
ACA Academy in Leesburg. The band received a Superior rating at the Florida
Forest Festival. During the same school year, the band was crowned "Grand
Champion Band" at the Pine Tree Festival. The year ended with an increase of
membership to 92. 1985: Membership in the band increased to over 100.
Information provided by Tony Buzzella
1985 - 1986 David Holt, Director
1986 - 1990 Mike Woodfin, Director Mike Woodfin was hired to fix the band and
get it back on track. 1986: The band participated in all Florida Bandmasters
Association Festivals. The following ratings were received: Marching Festival -
EXCELLENT, Concert Festival - SUPERIOR; The last SUPERIOR rating at FBA Concert
Festival was in 1978, Solo & Ensemble - Jazz Ensemble - SUPERIOR, STATE Solo
& Ensemble - SUPERIOR. 1987: The band participated in all Florida
Bandmasters Association Festivals. The following ratings were received: Marching
Festival - EXCELLENT, Concert Festival - SUPERIOR. The band traveled to Atlanta
Georgia and won the "Best in Class" Trophy at the Six-Flags over Georgia Concert
Festival In addition to his High School duties with Columbia High Band, Mr.
Woodfin began the Niblack Middle School Band (6th grade center, now an
neighborhood Elementary school) with 125 students which met on the stage in the
cafetorium. The same year, Steve Hentzelman was hired to take the Niblack
program full time as a result of the anticipated numbers for the following
school year. 1988: Marching Festival - SUPERIOR, Northeast Florida Marching Band
competition in Jacksonville FL - SUPERIOR, Concert Festival - SUPERIOR,
"Festival Of Champions" Panama City Beach - SUPERIOR The band participated in
Florida Bandmasters State Festival as a result of the SUPERIOR rating at the
F.B.A. District Concert Festival. Participation in the State festival is the
first time the band attended in more than a decade. Mr. Woodfin started the
first Ft. White Band at Ft. White Community School. The band was discontinued
during the 90's and was resurrected with the opening of Ft. White High School.
1989: In 89 some changes were made and Mike Woodfin was asked to take over the
Lake City Middle School Band and the Columbia High School Band on the two
separate campuses. These two programs were combined to become the Columbia High School Band. Since this program was under two separate principals they were not able to participate in any Florida Bandmasters Association Festivals. The band attended exhibition marching festivals and several parades and held community
concerts Information provided by Mike Woodfin
1990 - 1995 Larry Hall, Director 1990: New Marching Uniforms Purchased.
1995 - 1996 Steve Myers, Director 1995: Joe Atkins, Assistant Director; Ed
Amaya, Assistant Director; Tanya Myers, flag sponsor; Jennifer Janasiewicz Drum
Major; Gwen Wasley, Drum Major; Israel Hunter, Drum Major; John Phillip Sousa
Award: Jennifer Janasiewicz. Marching Show: Salute To America: American Salute,
Don't Get Around Much Anymore, and Stars and Stripes The band participated in
F.B.A. Marching Festival and the Hardee Invitational Marching Festival in which
they received an Excellent rating. The band participated in FBA Concert Festival
and received an Excellent rating. Information provided Joe Atkins
1996 - 2006 Joseph N. Atkins, Director
1996 - 1997: Allyson Wheeler, Flag Sponsor; Jordan Roberts, Band Captain;
Gwen Wasley, Drum Major; Israel Hunter,Drum Major; John Phillip Sousa Award:
Jordan Roberts and Director's Award, Israel Hunter and Gwen Wasley. The band
traveled to all away football games and to state playoff games. The district
stretched from Gainesville, Florida to Jacksonville and Tallahassee. Marching
Show: Rock n' Roll Through Time; Rock Around The Clock, Surfin' USA, Carry On
Wayward Son, Can't Help Falling In Love The band received STRAIGHT SUPERIOR
Ratings at FBA Marching Festival, EXCELLENT Rating at Echoes of Excellence
Marching Contest. The band also participated in the University of Florida
Homecoming Parade. The band traveled to Atlanta Georgia to participate in the
Peach Bowl Game Pre-game and Half-time Shows. The university teams playing in
the game were Clemson University and Louisiana State University. The band was
crowned "Grand Champion Band" of the Peach Bowl Parade. Symphonic Band: Pentland
Hills; Prelude, Scilliano and Rondo, and Elegy for A Young American The band
also received Straight Superior Ratings at FBA Concert Festival and qualified to
participate in FBA State Concert Festival for the first time since 1988. The
Symphonic Band was invited to play a side by side concert with Stetson
University at the Alfonso Levy Performing Arts Center honoring Mr. Lenvil Dicks
former Columbia High School Band Director and Stetson University Music
Scholarship Endowment Contributor.
1997 - 1998: Trish Spears , Flag Sponsor, Chip Garner and Lydia Kerr, Band
Captains, Mandy Soto and Dain Cole, Drum Majors, John Phillip Sousa Award: Chip
Garner and Director's Award, Lydia Kerr. The band traveled to all away football
games and to state playoff games. The district stretched from Gainesville,
Florida to Jacksonville and Tallahassee. Marching Show: Fiesta de la Musica:
Barcelona, Speak Up Mambo, La Cuckaratcha - Percussion Feature, and Nights In
White Satin The band participated in the FBA Marching Festival and received
STRAIGHT SUPERIOR Ratings. The FBA Marching Festival was held at Columbia High
School. FBA Festival being moved from Citizen's Field to Columbia High School
would mark the first time the festival was held someplace other than Gainesville
since it's inception (61 years). The band also participated in the Echoes of
Excellence Marching Band Contest and received STRAIGHT SUPERIOR Ratings in both
Preliminary Competition and Finals Competition. Ranked 8th overall. Concert
Band: Lexington March, Cumberland Cross, Nathan Hale Trilogy Symphonic Band:
Minute Man March, American Riversongs, Chorale and Shaker Dance Both the Concert
Band and Symphonic Band participated in FBA Concert Festival and earned an
EXCELLENT Rating.
1998 - 1999: Joey Giberti, Assistant Director and Lake City Middle School
Director; Joan Thomas, Field Assistant and English Teacher - CHS; Allyson Moore,
Flag Sponsor and Teacher - Summers Elementary; Johnny Huland, Band Captain; Tina
Nail, Head Drum Major and Morgan Ellis, Drum Major; John Phillip Sousa Award:
Ryan Schulz; Gilmore Award: Travis George and Director's Award, Gary McGuigan.
The band traveled to all away football games and to state playoff games. The
district stretched from Gainesville, Florida to Jacksonville and Tallahassee.
Marching Show: Jazzin It: Birdland, At Your Disposal - Percussion Feature,
Jazzin' It and The Sound of Silence The band participated in the FBA Marching
Festival and received STRAIGHT SUPERIOR Ratings. The band also participated in
the Echoes of Excellence Marching Contest and Received SUPERIOR Ratings in both
the Preliminary and Finals Competition. Ranked 6th overall. Symphonic Band:
World's Fair March, Rhosmydre, Toccata In the FBA Concert Festival the band
received an EXCELLENT rating. The University of Florida invited the Symphonic
Band to participate in it's band invitational. The Symphonic Band worked with
Mr. Gary Smith, Professor of Music from Illinois University and Dr. David
Waybright, Director of Bands at the University of Florida.
1999 - 2000: Joey Giberti, Assistant Director and Lake City Middle School
Director; Joan Thomas, Field Assistant and English Teacher - CHS; Allyson Moore,
Flag Sponsor and Teacher - Summers Elementary; Anthony Rodriguez, Band Captain;
Morgan Ellis, Head Drum Major; Tina Nail, Drum Major; Kris Gintz, Drum Major;
Crystal Newberry, Flag Captain: John Philip Sousa Award, Anthony Rodriguez:
Gilmore Award, Bryon Maxwell and Director's Award, Tina Nail and Morgan Ellis.
The band traveled to all away football games and to state playoff games. The
district stretched from Gainesville, Florida to Jacksonville and Tallahassee.
Marching Show: Gospel 99: Let Us Break Bread Together, Shine Down, Swinging
Chariots and How Great Thou Art The band started the year with approximately 176
students. Because of the size of the band and the wear and tear on the uniforms,
the band had to march in alternate uniforms. The band wore black dress trousers,
black marching shoes, black socks and purple polo shirt. A professional drawing
was made of the proposed uniform and a sample soon followed. A uniform
fund-raising drive was kicked off in the month of September. The main emphasis
placed on the bands Adopt-a-Uniform aimed at area businesses. On February 23,
2000, four uniform companies submitted bids to make the new marching uniforms.
The bid was granted to Stanbury Uniforms in the amount of $46,900.00. The
uniforms arrived during the month of June, 2 months ahead of the scheduled date
promised by the company. The band participated in the F.B.A. Marching Festival
and received STRAIGHT SUPERIOR ratings. The band also participated in the
Ancient City Presentation of Bands Marching Competition. The band received
STRAIGHT SUPERIOR ratings in both Preliminary and Finals Competitions. Ranked
4th overall. Concert Band: Charter Oak March, Mini Suite, Kentucky 1800 This is
only the second time in the past four years the concert band participated in the
F.B.A. Concert Festival. The band did an outstanding job. They received the
following ratings: Judge 1: EXCELLENT; Judge 2: EXCELLENT; Judge 3: EXCELLEN;
S.R. Judge: GOOD for an overall EXCELLENT Rating Symphonic Band: On The Square,
Four Scottish Dances - mvt. III & mvt. I, Kaddish The band performed last on
Saturday, March 13, 2000. The band received the following ratings. Judge 1:
SUPERIOR; Judge 2: SUPERIOR; Judge 3: SUPERIOR and S.R. Judge: SUPERIOR. The
Symphonic Band qualified to participate in the F.B.A. State Level Concert
Festival at The University of Florida.
2000 - 2001: Joey Giberti, Assistant Director and Lake City Middle School
Director; Allyson Moore, Flag Sponsor and Teacher - Summers Elementary; Matt
Johns, Band Captain; Stephanie Jones, Drum Major; Dustin Mobley Drum Major;
Melond Waters, Drum Major; Nicole Johnson, Flag Captain; John Philip Sousa
Award, Matt Johns; Patrick Gilmore Award, Becky Schulz and Director's Award,
Rachel Crocker. The band traveled to all away football games and to state
playoff games. The district stretched from Gainesville, Florida to Jacksonville
and Tallahassee. Marching Show: Blast from the Past; American Woman, Things Can
Only Get Better, Tactical Instinct (Percussion Feature) and Bridge Over Troubled
Water. The opening of the school year 2000 - 20001 would place many obstacles in
the path of the student body of Columbia High School as a whole as well as the
band program. Because of the delayed construction of the New Fort White Jr. -
Sr. High School, the school year began a week later than usual. The band lost
several members to the new high school as well as having a large influx of
freshmen students to the program. The band program overcame every obstacle and
challenge placed before it with "Pride" and dignity. The freshmen class proved
to be a fine addition to the program. On Saturday, October 21, 2000 the band
participated in the Southern Showcase of Champions. The Southern Showcase of
Champions is touted as the premier band competition in the Southeastern United
States. All of the bands that participated were very strong and the competition
was tight. CHS Band received a SUPERIOR rating in every category except Marching
and Maneuvering. Placed 3rd in class A bands. The band participated in the
Florida Bandmasters Association Marching Band Festival on Saturday, November 4,
2000 at Middleburg High School in Middleburg, Florida. The F.B.A. Marching
Festival being hosted in Middleburg marks the second time the marching festival
was held in a location other than Gainesville, Florida in 64 years of operation.
Columbia High Band received a Superior Rating. Concert Band: Screaming Eagles
March, Korean Folk Song Medley and Courtly Festival. The Florida Bandmasters
Association District IV Concert Festival was held at Union County High School in
Lake Butler. The Concert Band received a rating of GOOD from each of the three
judges and a rating of GOOD from the sight reading judge. Symphonic Band:
Freedom City March, Armida and Tocatta for Band The Symphonic Band received a
rating of EXCELLENT from each of the three judges and a rating of SUPERIOR from
the sight reading judge. On Wednesday, May 2, 2001 the members of the band,
staff and 25 chaperones boarded 3 chartered motor coaches (B. Franz) to go to
Washington DC. While in Washington DC the students and parents visited the
following sites: Arlington National Cemetary (President Kennedy grave site,
Robert E. Lee's Mansion, Changing of the guard of the unknown soldier), Old Post
Office, Smithsonian Institution, Embassy Row, National Cathedral, Reagan Center,
Pentagon Mall, White House, Capital Building, picture taken at the Supreme Court
Building, Vietnam Wall Memorial, Women in the Service Memorial, Lincoln Memorial
and the Iwo Gima Memorial. On Saturday, May 5, 2001 the band traveled to
Winchester, Virginia to participate in the 74th Annual Apple Blossom Festival.
The festival hosts two parades, the Firefighters Parade and the Grand Feature
Parade. The CHS Band was chosen to march in the Grand Feature Parade. The 4 mile
parade route winds through the streets of Winchester, Virginia which is lined
with Apple trees full of white apple blossoms. The band took 4th place band in
the parade. Upon returning from the Washington DC trip, the band received an
invitation to participate in the London Parade in London, England. The
invitation is for December 26, 2002 - January 3, 2003.
2001 - 2002: Joey Giberti, Assistant Director and Lake City Middle School
Director; Allyson Moore, Flag Sponsor and Teacher - Summers Elementary; Julie
Janasiewicz, Brass Captain; David Kelley, Woodwind Captain; Cory Douglas,
Percussion Captain; Maria Diaz de Arce, Auxiliary Captain; Stephanie Jones, Drum
Major; Dustin Mobley Drum Major; Josh Navarro, Drum Major; John Philip Sousa
Award, Dustin Mobley; Patrick Gilmore Award, Cory Douglas and Director's Award,
Stephanie Jones. The band traveled to all away football games and to state
playoff games. The district stretched from Gainesville, Florida to Tallahassee,
Florida. Marching Show: Styx; Mr. Roboto, A.D. 1928/Rockn' the Paradise, Border
Line (Percussion Feature) and The Best of Times. On Saturday, October 13, 2001
the band participated in the First Coast Marching Band Clasic at Terry Parker
High School. The band received a SUPERIOR Rating, but did not qualify to compete
in the finals competition The band placed 3rd in Class AA competition. On
Saturday, October 20, 2001 the band hosted as well as participated in The
Florida Bandmasters Association Marching Band Performance Assessment (formerly
known as Marching Band Festival). Host the marching performance assessment is
the second time Columbia High has had the privilege of hosting the event and
marks the third time in the festivals history it has been hosted in a location
other than Gainesville, Florida. Columbia High Band received a rating of
STRAIGHT SUPERIOR. Due to the tragedy of the Terrorist Attacks on September 11,
2001, the band was forced to cancel it's trip to London, England for the London
Parade. Symphonic Band: Emblem of Unity, Manatee Lyric Overtures and Fortress
The band performed on Friday, March 8, 2002. The band received the following
ratings. Judge 1: SUPERIOR; Judge 2: SUPERIOR; Judge 3: SUPERIOR and S.R. Judge:
SUPERIOR. The Symphonic Band qualified to participate in the F.B.A. State Level
Concert Festival at Florida A&M University. State Festival Results: Judge 1:
Excellent; Judge 2: Excellent; Judge 3: Excellent and S.R. Judge: Excellent.
2002 - 2003: Suzanne Atkins, Flag Sponsor; Chris Josey, Band Assistant:
Tristan St. John, Brass Captain; Christy Holder, Woodwind Captain; Daniel Hunt,
Percussion Captain; Autumn Newberry, Auxiliary Captain; Stephenie Alvarado, Drum
Major; Joshua Garner, Drum Major; John Philip Sousa Award, Tristan St. John;
Patrick Gilmore Award, Daniel Hunt and Directors Award, Christina Holder. The
band traveled to all away football games and to state playoff games. The
district stretched from Gainesville, Florida to Tallahassee, Florida. Marching
Show: Malaguena, Diable Jam (Percussion Feature), The Speak Up Mambo and
Somewhere (Westside Story) On Saturday, October 12, 2002 the band participated
in the Seaside Invitational Marching Band Competition at Fletcher High School.
The band received an Excellent Rating. On Saturday, October 20, 2002 the band
hosted as well as participated in The Florida Bandmasters Association Marching
Band Music Performance Assessment (formerly known as Marching Band Festival).
Hosting the marching music performance assessment is the second time Columbia
High has had the privilege of hosting the event and marks the fourth time in the
festivals history it has been hosted in a location other than Gainesville,
Florida. Columbia High Band received a rating of STRAIGHT SUPERIOR. The band
traveled to Dallas, Texas to participate in the Collton Bowl Parade, Pre-game
and Half-time Shows. The university teams playing in the bowl game were Texas
University Longhorns and Lousiana State University Tigers. The band placed
second place in the band receiving a superior rating with distinction. Concert
Band: Citadel March, Rhenish Folk Festival and Nathan Hale Trilogy The band
performed on Friday, March 7, 2003 at Bell Jr.-Sr. High School. The band
received the follwoing ratings. Judge 1: Fair; Judge 2: Fair; Judge 3: Fair and
S.R. Judge: Excellent. Symphonic Band: Brittish Eighth, American Riversongs and
They Hung Their Harps in the Willows The band performed on Friday, March 7, 2003
at Bell Jr.-Sr. High School, Bell, FL. The band received the following ratings.
Judge 1: Good; Judge 2: Good; Judge 3: Fair and S.R. Judge: Superior.
2003 - 2004: Suzanne Atkins, Flag Sponsor; Jonathan Benefield, Brass Captain;
Phillip Brehm, Woodwind Captain; Danil Webb, Percussion Captain; Jessica Reed,
Auxiliary Captain; Shannon Jones, Drum Major; Stephaenie Alvarado, Drum Major;
John Temple, Drum Major; John Philip Sousa Award, Japera Denson; Patrick Gilmore
Award, Stephenie Alvarado, Director's Award, Ian Gottschalk The band traveled to
all away football games and to state playoff games. The district stretched from
Gainesville, Florida to Tallahasse, Florida Marching Show: Respect, Magic Carpet
Ride and When a Man Loves a Woman. On Saturday, October 18, 2004 the band
participated in the Hurricane Pride Invitational Marching Band Festival at
Citrus High School. The band received an Excellent rating. On Saturday, October
25, 2004 the band hosted as well as participated in The Florida Bandmasters
Association Marching Band Music Performnace Assessment. Columbia High Band
received a rating of STRAIGHT SUPERIOR. The band traveled to Atlanta, Georgia to
participate in the Peach Bowl Parade, Pre-game and Half-time Shows. The
university teams playing in the bowl game were Clemson University and University
of Tennessee. The band placed second place in the parade and a rating of
superior. Symphonic Band: El Capitan, Longford Legend and Symphonic Overture.
The band performed on Friday, March 5, 2004 at Lincoln Middle School,
Gainesville, FL. The band received the following ratings. Judge 1: Superior;
Judge 2: Excellent; Judge 3: Excellent and S.R. Judge: Superior.
2004 - 2005: Suzanne Atkins, Flag Sponsor; B.J. Watson, Brass Captain; Dayna
Anthony, Woodwind Captain; Josh Ayers and Antonio Wyche, Percussion Captain;
Karla Pippins, Auxiliary Captain; Drum Major: Jason Rosenfeld; Drum Major, Josh
Swain; Drum Major, John Temple; John Philip Sousa Award, John Temple; Patrick
Gilmore Award, B.J. Watson and Director's Award, Karla Pippins. The band
traveled to all away football games and to state playoff games. The district
stretched from Gainesville, Florida to Jacksonville, Florida. Marching Show:
Were An American Band, Land of Make Believe, Diablo Jam and Tuesday Afternoon On
Staruday, October 16, 2005 the band participated in the Hurricane Pride
Invitational Marching Band Festival at Citrus High School. the band received an
Excellent rating. On Saturday, October 23, 2004 the band hosted as well as
participated in The Florida Bandmasters Association Marching Band Music
Performance Assessment. Columbia High Band received a rating of STRAIGHT
SUPERIOR. Symphonic Band: Galito, Armida Overture and Chanteys. The band
performed on Saturday, March 5, 2005 at Bradford County High School, Starke,
Florida. The band received the following ratings. Judge 1: Superior; Judge 2:
Superior; Judge 3: Superior and S.R. Judge: Superior. The Symphonic Band
qualified to participate in the F.B.A. State Concert Festival Music Performance
Assessment at Wesley Chapel High School. State MPA Results: Judge 1: Good; Judge
2: Good; Judge 3: Good.
2005 - 2006: Suzanne Atkins, Flag Sponsor; Colby Higgins, Brass Captain;
Walter Guy, Woodwind Captian; Antonio Wyche, Percussion Captain; Jessican
Stanton and Catherine Summers, Auxiliary Captains; Drum Major, Bradley Osburn;
Drum Major, Jason Rosenfeld and Drum Major, Josh Swain; John Philip Sousa Award,
Colby Higgins; Patrick Gilmore Award, Jacob Fetherol; Director's Award, Jason
Rosenfeld and Josh Swain. The school enrollement at Columbia High School reached
more than 2,000 students which raised the classificiation of the band from BB to
A, thus raising the performance expectations for the band by the Florida
Bandmasters Association. Marching Show: "Earth, Wind and Fire". In the Stone,
Let's Groove, Africano and After the Love Has Gone. On Saturday, October 15,
2005 the band particitpated in Kingdom of the Sun Marching Band Festival at
North Marion High School. The band received a proficient rating. On Saturday,
October 22, 2005 the band hosted as well as participated in The Florida
Bandmasters Assocaiton Marching Band Music Performance Assessment. Columbia High
Band received a rating of STRAIGHT SUPERIOR. Symphonic Band: Emblem of Unity,
Fortress and Prelude, Siciliano and Rondo. The band performed on Saturday, March
4, 2006 at Bradford County High School, Starke, Florida. The band received the
following ratings. Judge 1: Superior; Judge 2: Superior; Judge 3: Superior and
S.R. Judge Excellent. The Symphonic Band qualified to participated in the F.B.A.
State Concert Music Performance Assessment at Ft. Walton Beach High School.
State MPA Results: Judge 1: Good; Judge 2: Good; Judge 3: Good. 2006: Joseph
Adkins was promoted to be an Administrator in the Columbia County Schools.
2006 – 2015 Ryan Schulz, Director
2006 - 2007: Amanda Schulz ; Color Guard Sponsor.; Anthony Mobley Field Assistant;
Jim Smith, Brass Captain; Nikolai Lee, Woodwind Captain; Anotnio Wyche, Percussion Captain;
Kristin Giebeig, Auxiliary Captain; Kerri Dooley, Drum Major; Lacey Seelbach,Drum Major;
Tim Whiddon, Drum Major and Ricky Holder, Band Colonel. John Phillip Sousa Award ; Antonio Wyche ;
Patrick Gilmore Award; Jim Smith; Directors Award; Rita Buzzella and Ricky Holder.
Marching Show: "The Sound of Simon". Bridge Over Troubled Water, You Can Call Me Al,
Still Crazy After All These Years, 50 Ways to Leave Your Lover, and The Sound Silence.
On Saturday, October 15, 2005 the band particitpated in Echoes of Excellence Marching Band Festival
at Middleburg High School. The band received a Superior rating and Placed 10th out of 24
bands. On Saturday November 4, 2006 he band hosted as well as participated in
The Florida Bandmasters Associaiton Marching Band Music Performance Assessment.
Columbia High Band received a rating of SUPERIOR. Symphonic Band: World's Fair
March, American Riversongs and Toccata. The band performed on Saturday, March
17, 2007 at Bradford County High School, Starke, Florida. The band received the
following ratings. Judge 1: Superior; Judge 2: Superior; Judge 3: Superior and
S.R. Judge Excellent. The Symphonic Band qualified to participated in the F.B.A.
State Concert Music Performance Assessment at Gulf Coast Community College.
State MPA Results: Judge 1: Excellent; Judge 2: Excellent; Judge 3: Excellent.
2007 - 2008: Amanda Schulz ; Color Guard Sponsor.; Anthony Mobley Field
Assistant; Ryan Siemer, Brass Captain; Nikolai Lee, Woodwind Captain;
Cindy Thomas, Percussion Captain; Gabby Bellamy, Auxiliary Captain; Kerri Dooley, Drum Major;
Tim Whiddon, Drum Major. John Phillip Sousa Award ; Tim Whiddon Patrick Gilmore Award; Nikolia Lee;
Directors Award; Gabby Bellamy.
Marching Show: "Broadway". Prolouge Murder,Murder, Masqurade, Tactical Instict, and Superstar
On Saturday, October 18, 2007 the band particitpated in Echoes of Excellence Marching Band Festival
at Middleburg High School. The band received a Excellent Rating. On Saturday October 25, 2007 the band hosted as well as
participated in The Florida Bandmasters Associaiton Marching Band Music Performance Assessment.
Columbia High Band received a rating of SUPERIOR.
Symphonic Band: Proud Heritage March, English Folk Song Suite, and An American Elegy. The
band performed on Saturday, March 25, 2008 at the Columbia County School Board , Lake City, Florida. The band received the
following ratings. Judge 1: Excellent; Judge 2: Excellent; Judge 3: Excellent and S.R. Judge Excellent.
2008 - 2009: Jan Smith ; Color Guard Sponsor.; Anthony Mobley Assistant; Armand Mayo, Brass Captain; Shalicia Shemwell, Woodwind Captain;
Dalton Weatherford, Percussion Captain; Allysa Sliksbier, Auxiliary Captain; Sarah Catalfu, Drum Major; Ryan Faucher, Drum Major.
John Phillip Sousa Award ; Sarah Dooley Patrick Gilmore Award; James Wolf; Directors Award; Shalicia Shemwell National Marching Band Award; Allysa Sliksbier.
Marching Show: "Retro 60s". House of the Rising Sun, Eleanor Rigby, Foozball, and Aquarius.
On Saturday, October 11, 2008 the band particitpated in Tri-County Marching Band Festival
at Chiefland High School. The band received a Superior Rating and was crowned Grand Champion. On Saturday October 18, 2008 the band
participated in The Florida Bandmasters Associaiton Marching Band Music Performance Assessment at Union County High School.
Columbia High Band received a rating of SUPERIOR.
Symphonic Band: New Castle March, Cumberland Cross and Sonatina for Band
Wind Ensemble: Pentland Hills, In the Church and Symphonic Overture . The
bands performed on Friday, March 18, 2009 at the Bradford High School auditorium, Lake City, Florida. The Symphonic Band band received the
following ratings. Judge 1: Excellent; Judge 2: Excellent; Judge 3: Excellent and S.R. Judge Superior. The Wind Ensemble Recieved the Following rating Judge 1: Superior; Judge 2: Superior; Judge 3: Excellent and S.R. Judge Superior. The Wind Ensemble qualified to participated in the F.B.A.
State Concert Music Performance Assessment at University od Florida.
State MPA Results: Judge 1: Excellent; Judge 2: Excellent; Judge 3: Excellent.
2009 - 2010: Jan Smith ; Color Guard Sponsor.; Anthony Mobley Assistant; Armand Mayo, Brass Captain; Kalyn Coker, Woodwind Captain;
Chris Hicks, Percussion Captain; Colleen Heeney, Auxiliary Captain; Sarah Catalfu, Drum Major; Katie Faris, Drum Major; Ryan Faucher, Drum Major.
John Phillip Sousa Award ; Ryan Faucher Patrick Gilmore Award; Armand Mayo; Directors Award; Colleen Heeney National Marching Band Award; Christian Heston.
Marching Show: "Music of Karl Jenkins".
On Saturday, October 3, 2009 the band particitpated in Hurricane PrideMarching Band Festival
at Inverness High School. The band received a Superior Rating and placed 10th out of 20 bands. On Saturday October 17, 2009 the band
participated and hosted The Florida Bandmasters Associaiton Marching Band Music Performance Assessment .
Columbia High Band received a rating of SUPERIOR.
Symphonic Band: LexingtonMarch, Afton Variations and Nathan Hale Trilogy
Wind Ensemble: Emblem of Unity, Allerseleen and Armida Overture . The
bands performed on Friday, March 13, 2010 at the PK Younge High School auditorium, Gainesville, Florida. The Symphonic Band band received the
following ratings. Judge 1: Excellent; Judge 2: Excellent; Judge 3: Excellent and S.R. Judge Excellent. The Wind Ensemble Recieved the Following rating Judge 1: Excellent; Judge 2: Excellent; Judge 3: Excellent and S.R. Judge Superior. The Band had the oppourtunity travel to New York City and perform at the Lincoln Center in April of 2010. The band performed very well for the clinicians and enjoyed a great trip.
Justin Hammis Director of Bands 2015 – 2016
‘Battle on the Boarder” Marching Band Competition Valdosta GA- Superior Drum Major, Excellent Band,
3rd Place Class A
Overall- Excellent
FBA Marching Band Competition- Marching- Excellent, Percussion- Excellent , Color Guard- Good, Music- Good
Overall- Good
FBA Solo & Ensemble- Percussion Ensemble- Excellent, Jazz Band- Excellent, Color Guard- Superior
FBA MPA District Concert Band- Performance 1) Superior 2) Excellent 3) Excellent Sight Reading- Superior
Overall- Excellent