Music News

By Darwin Cooper

Mr. Nathan. Witte, 23, comes to Dolores High School to run the music program. Mr. Witte finished his student teaching in December 2020 and began his Dolores Band teaching career the next month, January 2021.

Mr. Witte’s ambitions are to make the program resemble what it once was by incorporating more performances, as well as performing in other towns like Grand Junction. Mr. Witte plans for the band program to compete, win competitions, and perform on a higher, more competitive level. Students are excited and motivated for these performances. One student Taylor Cooper said, “I really do hope we go to Grand Junction, and play with a bigger group and finally be noticed for once.” Mr. Witte added, “It used to be a big program and we are taking steps to perform after COVID and getting the band out there travelling, performing, and fundraising.” There are challenges in building the program Witte stated, “Funding is an issue, as well as, getting instruments and community support.”

Mr. Witte has students excited to play and grow. A student, Aidan Pym commented, “I want to be able to play the full note range and learn the music language.” Julianna Vega added, “ His enthusiasm makes me excited for band class.“

The 2021-22 band program consists of symphonic band, pep band, and choir.