Embedded Files
(10/10/2025) ➡ Concerts, Events, and more Music, Music, Music!
(10/10/2025) ➡ Concerts, Events, and more Music, Music, Music!
We've made it past the start of the year. Now the fun can really begin!
We've made it past the start of the year. Now the fun can really begin!
We are so proud of all the things the kids have accomplished in the last few weeks and the year feels like it just started!
8th graders had a great time performing with the high school band in the parade and at the football game and both of our 7th/8th grade Advanced Bands have been diligently preparing for their first concert of the year (NEXT Tuesday, October 14 - read more about it below 😁).
Meanwhile, our beginning band students are moving beyond the basics of rhythm, tone production, and note names into the next steps of music-making - playing notes by sight out of the book and discovering how to play a huge number of melodies and songs on their instruments!
It's an exciting time, and we can't wait to share with you all that these kids are doing in band class each and every day!
INFO for the 7th/8th grade Band Classes:
INFO for the 7th/8th grade Band Classes:
🎵 FALL CONCERT NEXT WEEK!
🎵 FALL CONCERT NEXT WEEK!
- Tuesday, October 14 @ 6:30 pm - SVMS Cafeteria
- Tuesday, October 14 @ 6:30 pm - SVMS Cafeteria
This is for ALL students in the Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, and Advanced percussion classes (2nd, 3rd, and 4th periods).
All Symphonic Band students and ALL Percussion must be in the band hall by 6:00 pm.
All Wind Ensemble students must be in the band hall by 6:10pm.
Dress Code is their Band Shirts and Blue Jeans. (If your child has not yet recieved their band shirt, have them come see us before school on Tuesday and we will get them one.
This concert is a major grade and a great performance opportunity for the kids. It will be a great night of music, open to the public with free admission, so please invite your friends, family, and neighbors to join you in supporting the SVMS Mustang Band!
🎢 DALLAS TRIP - May 8 & 9, 2026
🎢 DALLAS TRIP - May 8 & 9, 2026
This year's trip is scheduled for Friday-Saturday, May 8-9, 2026. Only students in the 7th/8th grade band, choir, and orchestra classes are invited to participate!
We sent out a trip interest form a few weeks ago and are in the middle of getting final contracts signed with the hotel, bus company, and other vendors. But right now, only 36% of our 7th and 8th grade band students have responded to the Dallas trip Form Request. Please make it a priority to fill out the form as soon as you can so we can get an accurate count of how many hotel rooms, buses, food, and park tickets to reserve with the vendors.
Remember that the number of participants is directly related to the cost of the trip.
The more people who sign up, the lower the cost for everyone! If we get close to our target of 80% of the 7th and 8th grade band participating in the trip (which is what we have averaged every year I've been at SVMS), then the cost of the trip per person will likely be $350. But if our current survey responses are any indication, the cost will be closer to $400 per person. Please help us out by contacting the other band, choir, and orchestra parents you know, and spread the word!
All the details of the trip, and the Dallas Trip Interest Form, can be found at the link here: https://bit.ly/svmsdallas
Preliminary itinerary:
We will take charter coach buses up to Dallas, leaving early Friday morning.
After a lunchtime stop at Buc-ee's in Temple, we will arrive in Dallas and give a performance in a nice concert hall as part of the Lone Star Showcase of Music Festival!
Then we will check in to our hotel (The Lamar, formerly known as the Crowne Plaza in Arlington) before going to a fun Friday night activity (Dinner and fun at Alley Cats).
After spending the night in the hotel, we will get up the next morning, enjoy a huge breakfast buffet, and then spend the rest of the day at Six Flags Over Texas!
We will get back to SVMS around 9PM Saturday night (after another stop at Buc-ee's on the way home).
If this sounds like a lot of fun, then please let us know you are interested!!! (...we also need parent chaperones to join us on this trip... 😃 )
Remember, the more people who go, the lower the cost for everyone!
Payments will begin in early November once we finalize our headcount with the vendors. When the link to officially register and pay for the trip is available, we will send it out. Until then, please fill out the form at the link above!
🏆 ALL-REGION BAND
🏆 ALL-REGION BAND
The All-Region band auditions, taking place on Saturday, November 8, are an opportunity for our most advanced students to compete against middle school musicians from other schools in our area, auditioning for placement in this year's middle school All-Region band!
More information about these auditions, and the music the students will need to perform in the audition, can be found on our website by clicking the "All-Region Band Info" heading at the top or by clicking here: https://bit.ly/svmsregion
The deadline to register is next Friday, October 17.
Only students in the Wind Ensemble and the Advanced Percussion classes who have already been working on the music in class or sectionals should sign up to audition unless we have reached out to you personally. All students in these classes are expected to learn the audition music and pass it off for the band directors before they will be allowed to audition. If your child is not sure if they will be ready, please reach out to us and we can let you know if it is a good idea for your child to audition.
😎 JAZZ BAND - afterschool every Friday until 5:15pm
😎 JAZZ BAND - afterschool every Friday until 5:15pm
The students demanded it and we delivered... Jazz Band is back in full swing! Any band (or orchestra) student wishing to join Jazz Band should talk to a director and soon! We still have spots available for anyone wishing to learn a new style of music on the instrument they already play.
Traditional jazz bands are usually limited to Saxophones, Trumpets, Trombones, and a Rhythm section (Piano, Bass, Guitar, Drums, Vibes), but at SVMS, we have music for every instrument! Come on out next Friday for rehearsal from 4:00-5:15 to find out more and try something new!
Our first tentative Jazz band performance will be at the First Annual SVMS Fine Arts Night on Wednesday, October 22, happening concurrently with the SVMS Book Fair! Details will be distributed during jazz rehearsal. Otherwise, the Jazz Band will perform at the Advanced Band Holiday Concert on Tuesday, December 9.
INFO for EVERYONE:
INFO for EVERYONE:
➡️ FUNDRAISER ITEMS HAVE ARRIVED
➡️ FUNDRAISER ITEMS HAVE ARRIVED
If your child had a customer order fundraiser items online and requested that it be "Ship to School", then those items have finally arrived! They will be distributed to the kids on Wednesday next week. After that, if your child has not recieved their items, have them come see a director! Any prizes the students earned should be in their bag as well.
🗓️ Mark Your Calendar:
🗓️ Mark Your Calendar:
Veteran's Day Performance (top band only) - Tuesday, November 11 (during school)
Band Picture Day - Friday, November 21 (during school)
Beginning Band Holiday Concert - Thursday, December 4
Advanced Band Holiday Concert - Tuesday, December 9
📲 REMIND Groups:
📲 REMIND Groups:
DON'T FORGET TO JOIN OUR REMIND GROUPS! STAY IN THE LOOP!
All students and parents - https://www.remind.com/join/svmsbands -OR- TEXT @svmsbands to the number 81010
8th-grade students and parents only - https://www.remind.com/join/svband8 -OR- TEXT @svband8 to the number 81010
Once again, thank you for supporting your child's music education.
The more they practice and the more they play, the more fun they'll have every day! 😄
James Hargreaves (j.hargreaves@comalisd.org)
Spencer Katz (spencer.katz@comalisd.org)
SVMS Band Directors
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life." ~Berthold Auerbach
(9/5/2025) ➡ SPECIAL MESSAGE: HOUSE SOCIAL on MONDAY!
(9/5/2025) ➡ SPECIAL MESSAGE: HOUSE SOCIAL on MONDAY!
Dear Students and Parents,
We’re thrilled to officially announce the Opening-of-Year House Social happening this Monday, September 8! We’ve mentioned it before, but now it’s time to get hyped for an afternoon of fun, games, and house spirit to kick off the school year right!
Event Details:
When: Monday, right after school until 6:00 PM
Where: Kicks off in the upper (practice) gym, shifts to house common rooms (large classroom spaces) from 4:30–5:30 PM, and ends in the Main Gym from 5:30–6:00 PM
Pickup: Parents, please pick up your student at 6:00 PM out in the front of the school.
Important Info for Students Staying:
Students staying for the social must have a parent complete this Google Form (<-- CLICK HERE) to confirm you’re aware they’re staying and will be picked up at 6:00 PM.
Head to the upper (practice) gym right after school to join the fun!
Show your house pride by wearing your house colors on Monday!
This is going to be an awesome way to connect with your house, play games, and start the year with a bang. Let’s make it a day to remember!
Thank you for supporting the SVMS band program. We can’t wait for an incredible year!
James Hargreaves (j.hargreaves@comalisd.org)
Spencer Katz (spencer.katz@comalisd.org)
SVMS Band Directors
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life." ~Berthold Auerbach
(8/24/2025) ➡ A Thrilling Start to the Year!
(8/24/2025) ➡ A Thrilling Start to the Year!
Dear SVMS Band Parents and Students,
What a fantastic first week, Mustang Band! Our 7th and 8th graders jumped right back into playing, dusting off their skills and tackling new music with enthusiasm. Meanwhile, our beginners nailed their first lessons on fundamentals, setting the stage for a year of musical growth. We’re incredibly proud of the strong foundation being built in every class!
Important Information
Important Information
Beginners
Beginners
Bring Instruments: If you have an instrument at home, bring it this week and store it in your band hall locker before 1st period—no need to carry it all day! (Portable music stands can stay home.)
School-Delivered Instruments: Instruments ordered through music stores will be distributed this week.
Next Steps: We’ll begin opening cases and making sounds next week, so ensure your instrument is ready.
Need an Instrument or Accessories? Please secure your supplies ASAP. Find details on what to get and where: https://bit.ly/svms-supply-list
------------------------------------
House Sorting Project
House Sorting Project
Last year, our band students pioneered the House Sorting Project, a fun and engaging way to build community and teamwork, inspired by the idea of school “houses”. It was such a hit that the entire school is now joining in! This week, all SVMS students will take an updated Sorting Quiz during advisory to determine their house: IMPACT 🦁, SERENADE 🦌, SPARK 🦅, or BRAVURA 🐉. Each house fosters a sense of belonging, encourages positive behavior, and sparks friendly competition.
Returning Band Students: If you were sorted into a house last year, you’ll stay in that house but are encouraged to retake the quiz for fun.
New Students: The quiz will place you in one of the four houses, shaping your experience in school-wide and band activities.
New Feature: To keep groups manageable for house meetings and events, each house is now divided into two “orders” (e.g., Impact Red/Impact Grey, Serenade Gold/Serenade Black, Spark Blue/Spark Silver, Bravura Green/Bravura White). This ensures everyone can connect more closely with their house-mates.
Earning Points: School-wide, students earn points for their house by demonstrating Safe, Respectful, or Responsible behavior across the school (in classrooms, hallways, cafeteria, etc.). In band, points come from consistent rehearsal habits—showing up prepared, ready to work, and eager to learn—and passing off playing skills.
Opening House Social: To kick off this year's fun, we’re hosting a House Social on Monday, September 8, 4:30–6:30 PM. This event will feature games and activities to help new and returning students bond with their house-mates and celebrate the start of the year.
Students: Want to lead? Talk to a band director about helping plan or organize the event!
Parents: Make the night unforgettable by donating decorations, food, snacks, or drinks. Contact us to contribute!
More details: https://bit.ly/SVHouseSorting
------------------------------------
8th Grade Band Extravaganza
8th Grade Band Extravaganza
Get ready for an unforgettable day on September 26! Our 8th grade band students will participate in the Comal County Fair Parade, where they’ll march alongside the SVHS Ranger Band through downtown New Braunfels. This is a unique opportunity to connect with high school musicians and experience the excitement of a parade. Afterward, students will head to SVHS for a fun-filled afternoon of food provided by the band boosters, games, and bonding with the Ranger Band. Then, our 8th graders will get to perform with the high school band at the football game that night, showcasing our students’ talents under the Friday night lights.
Schedule: Arrive at SVMS ~8:00 AM for parade prep, return to SVHS ~1:00 PM for activities (TBD), and stay for the halftime performance, with pickup around 8:30 PM.
Action Items:
Mark your calendar for this all-day event.
Purchase a Camelbak-type hydration pack to keep your child comfortable during the parade.
More details will be shared soon, so stay tuned!
------------------------------------
Sectionals
Sectionals
Starting next week, we’re launching Instrument Masterclasses (aka sectionals) for all Wind Ensemble (2nd period, Top Band) students. These required morning practices, held 7:20–8:05 AM once per week, are key to elevating our skills to the next level. We’ve scheduled them to avoid conflicts with athletic practices where possible. If a conflict arises, please work with coaches to find a solution or contact us in advance to arrange an alternate time for your child to join us.
Check the full schedule and details: https://bit.ly/svbandsectionals
------------------------------------
Registration Fees
Registration Fees
If you missed back-to-school registration, please make sure you have submitted your band fees:
$80 Band Fee (all students): Covers the cost of a band t-shirt, new rehearsal book, sheet music throughout the year, band room supplies/equipment, and the cleaning of UIL uniforms for advanced students.
$80 School-Instrument Usage Fee (only for students using school-owned instruments: Oboe, Bassoon, Bass Clarinet, Tenor/Bari Sax, French Horn, Euphonium, Tuba, Percussion, 7th/8th grade Trombones): Covers part of the annual cleaning costs.
Payment Options: Contact the SVMS front office for details on paying with a credit card or avoid fees by paying us directly with cash/check/money order. For cash/check, please place the payment in an envelope labeled "For SVMS Band" and your child’s first and last name. You can drop it off at the front office, or have your child bring it to us in the band hall.
------------------------------------
Upcoming Events
Upcoming Events
Band Fundraiser: Kicks off THIS FRIDAY! Details coming home this week.
Opening House Social: Monday, September 8 (volunteers and donations needed).
Open House: Monday, September 15. Stop by and say hi! See where all the magic happens!
8th Grade Band Extravaganza: September 26.
7th/8th Grade Band Concert: Tuesday, October 14, 6:30 PM in the SVMS Cafeteria. Doors open at 6:00 PM; students should arrive in the band hall by 5:45 PM wearing their band shirt and blue jeans.
------------------------------------
Stay Connected
Stay Connected
Join our Remind for real-time updates:
All Students: https://www.remind.com/join/svmsbands
8th grade only: https://www.remind.com/join/svband8
------------------------------------
Thank you for encouraging your child’s passion for music. Band teaches resilience, teamwork, and lifelong learning, and we’re excited to partner with you to make this year amazing. Reach out with any questions!
James Hargreaves (j.hargreaves@comalisd.org)
Spencer Katz (spencer.katz@comalisd.org)
SVMS Band Directors
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life." ~Berthold Auerbach
(8/11/2025) ➡ Mustangs set the standard! Let the fun begin!
(8/11/2025) ➡ Mustangs set the standard! Let the fun begin!
To all SVMS Band parents and students,
To all SVMS Band parents and students,
A new school year is upon us once again! We've got some awesome new things planned for this year and we can't wait to let you in on the news!
FIRST THINGS FIRST: Back-to-School Registration/Orientation
FIRST THINGS FIRST: Back-to-School Registration/Orientation
Back-to-school Registration/Orientation is happening TOMORROW and WEDNESDAY. Before you come to SVMS, we need EVERYONE to:
READ the new SVMS Band Handbook. We made some changes from last year that we think you will like.
Fill out an ONLINE REGISTRATION FORM for the SVMS BAND (It's FINALLY a Google Form this year! No more paper forms—for now!)
If using a school-owned instrument, complete a CISD Equipment Usage Agreement and bring it with you to registration.
GO to the REGISTRATION INFO page of our website for all the relevant documents and links.
There is also a calendar of events for the year you can print and hang on your fridge, a materials list for the first day of school, and more!
SVMS Back-to-School Registration / Orientation / Schedule Pick-Up
SVMS Back-to-School Registration / Orientation / Schedule Pick-Up
Incoming 6th graders: TOMORROW, TUESDAY, August 12 from 8:30am-11:30am or 2:00pm-5:00pm.
Incoming 7th/8th graders: THIS WEDNESDAY, August 13 from 8:30am-11:30am or 2:00pm-5:00pm.
Please try to come at some point on one of the days listed above and say hello to your band directors (and other teachers too!). You will also have an opportunity to pay all your school fees at one time in one place, pick up your child's schedule, and tour the campus.
Ensure you fill out our SVMS Band Online Registration Form before you come to registration. This will help limit confusion around band fees and documents on the day of.
Sign up for our REMIND groups:
Sign up for our REMIND groups:
All students and parents: https://www.remind.com/join/svmsbands -OR- TEXT @svmsbands to 81010
8th-grade students and parents only: https://www.remind.com/join/svband8 -OR- TEXT @svband8 to 81010
SECOND THINGS SECOND: Incoming Beginning Band Students
SECOND THINGS SECOND: Incoming Beginning Band Students
Incoming Beginning Band Students ... WE CAN'T WAIT TO MAKE MUSIC WITH YOU!
But we can't do that if you don't have an instrument.
To get an instrument, follow these steps:
If you already know what instrument you will be playing this year, go to the Beginning-Band Page on our website to find our instrument supply letter.
If you missed the interviews or haven't received a confirmation email or phone call with your child's instrument placement, LET US KNOW!
We want to help your child get set and READY to ROCK this school year! Let us know your child's instrument preferences by filling out the Google form here: http://bit.ly/Join-The-Band. (Just ignore the questions about picking an interview. Those were back in April...)
Beginners will NOT need an instrument the first week of school. Don't wait to order one though. You will need it secured by the second week. We start playing on the third week of school. LET US KNOW IF YOU NEED HELP WITH THIS. We are happy to help guide you through this new endeavor. 😁
NOW, THE AWESOME STUFF:
NOW, THE AWESOME STUFF:
Last year, we piloted a new practice incentive program called the "House Sorting Project" (also called the "Four Houses of the SVMS Mustang Band"). If you were a part of that experiment last year, THANK YOU! It was so successful, that ALL of SVMS will be participating in it this year!
That's right, this year ALL students (and Teachers and Staff) will be sorted into one of four unique teams or "houses" that will act as a sort of family for them this school year. These families will extend beyond their clubs, grade levels, and class periods and help link students to the wider SVMS community. It is our hope that this link will provide our younger students with peer mentors who can help them throughout the year AND provide our older students with opportunities for leadership and growth.
The four houses are called Impact, Serenade, Spark, and Bravura. Each house has an associated mascot and coat of arms, as well as specific personality characteristics common to members of that house.
After the first day of school, students will take the House Sorting Quiz (with their school Gmail account) during their advisory period. This is a personality-style google form that will sort the students into their house. Results of the quiz will be released about a week later. Students who were already in a house last year will not need to take the quiz again as they will remain in their house as elders and leaders who will guide the culture and traditions of their house.
All the other details about this exciting project can be found on the "Four Houses" page of our website.
Parents, if you have any questions about this program, please do not hesitate to reach out. This is a fun new tradition for our band program and we welcome any thoughts or insights you might have.
------------------------
We are truly excited about all the fun this year has in store. The longer we teach, the more we understand that each new year is an adventure; with new faces to match with names, new personalities to mix with old, and new musical frontiers to explore. We look forward to going on this journey with you and your child and we can't wait to discover where the music will take us next!
If you run into any questions or concerns as we get this new year started, please feel free to reach out.
Thanks again,
James Hargreaves (j.hargreaves@comalisd.org)
Spencer Katz (spencer.katz@comalisd.org)
SVMS Band Directors
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life." ~Berthold Auerbach
Page updated
Report abuse