Old Announcements
2023-2024
Tuesday, January 30
Congratulations to the following students for their acceptance into the Western Illinois University Honor Band: Jia Qian, Dylan, Elaine, Jack, Chandler, and Sophie.
Kudos to the Jazz Band for delivering an outstanding performance at the State event last Saturday. Despite having only three rehearsals in January, you achieved a high Division II, just one point away from a Division I. Keep up the excellent work!
An additional opportunity awaits for those interested in participating in an extra pep band this Thursday at the Wrestling meet at Clark Field House. Call time is 5:45 PM, and I anticipate concluding around 6:30 PM.
Wednesday, January 24
Click for information on an upcoming performance
Monday, January 22
I want to apologize for the recent lack of updates. It seems that life got a bit hectic, but there is some important information to share.
Unfortunately, we're experiencing yet another canceled school day, making this January truly one to remember. State Jazz Band is this Saturday in the Davenport Central HS Auditorium. I know we will be a bit rusty, but that is understandable considering the number of rehearsals missed due to weather. If your family plans on attending the admission fees are $10 for adults, $7 for seniors, and $5 for students.
State Jazz Schedule
6:30 AM - Call time at BHS
6:45 AM - Depart BHS
9:00 AM - Warm-up
9:20 AM - Performance
10:30 AM - Depart for home
I am delighted to congratulate Jia Qian for her acceptance into the SEIBA Honor Band! Furthermore, a big round of applause for the following band students on their acceptance into the University of Iowa Honor Band: Jia Qian, Mason, Lily, Elaine, Sam, Hailey, and Ace. Your dedication and talent have not gone unnoticed, and we are incredibly proud of your achievements.
Monday, December 18
The jazz band will be performing at the Rotary lunch today at the Art Center. It seems some of the students may have forgotten what we have been talking about for the past 2 weeks (SMH). Call time for tonight's concert is 6:30 PM at ESMS.
Thursday, December 7
To watch the BHS/WIU Band Concert tonight, there are two ways to access it. Choose the platform that's best for you:
1) Find the WIU School of Music Facebook Page.
The concert link will appear at 7:30pm. NOTE: You will not see any advertisement or preview for the concert. It will be there only at concert time.
2) Find the WIU School of Music YouTube Page..
The concert link will appear at 7:30pm. NOTE: You will not see any advertisement or preview for the concert. It will be there only at concert time.
Tuesday, November 28
I hope everyone enjoyed a restful break. I wanted to express my gratitude for the numerous compliments received regarding the band's performance at the Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting ceremony. Thank you all for your hard work and dedication.
As we kick off pep band season, our first performance went off without a hitch. This Saturday, we'll be playing for Toys for Tots in the Westland Mall parking lot at 9 AM. It won't take too long, and I hope those who volunteered a few weeks ago are still able to participate.
Looking ahead, the WIU performance is scheduled for next Thursday at 7:30 PM in Macomb, Illinois, in the COFAC Recital Hall of Western Illinois University. Please take note of the timeline for the event.
Additionally, mark your calendars for our holiday concert on Sunday, December 10th, at 3:30 PM in the BHS Gym. Following that, our holiday jazz concert is set for December 18th at 7 PM in the ESMS Auditorium. Your continued commitment is appreciated, and I look forward to our upcoming performances.
WIU Timeline
4:00 PM - Leave BHS
5:00 - 5:15 PM - Arrive at WIU
5:30 - 6:15 PM - Rehearsal with Burlington in COFAC
6:15 - 6:30 PM - Transition (chairs and stands)
6:30- 6:40 PM - WIU Wind Ensemble with Mr. Murphy conducting
6:45 - 6:55 PM - Sleigh Ride with Mr. Murphy conducting
7:00 PM - Reset stage for Burlington (doors open)
7:20 PM - Burlington on-stage warmup/tuning
7:30 PM - Concert
10:00 PM - Arrive at BHS
Tuesday, November 7
Honor Band season is quickly approaching. There are sign-up sheets on my office window. SEIBA requires an in-person audition, Western Illinois University requires a chair placement audition after you are chosen, and the University of Iowa honor band has an online form that you must take care of yourself.
Monday, November 6
BHS Music students have an exciting opportunity to attend the Civic Music Student Performance of "One Night In Memphis" this Friday. To join, interested students should sign up on my office window by the end of the day this Wednesday.
The Holiday Parade (Nov. 25)and pep band are right around the corner. Please inform me if you'll be out of town for the holiday. Band students are encouraged to participate in 6 pep band events, and some even choose to perform at all of them, which is truly fantastic. The gray pep band is designated for 9/11 students, while the purple one is for 10/12 students. However, students can opt to attend the night that best fits their schedule.
Additionally, the performance at Western Illinois University is still scheduled for December 7th. Expect more information from them in the coming days, so please stay tuned for updates.
Thursday, October 5
Today is the Homecoming Parade and Carnaval/Pep Assembly. Band students, please remember to pick up your uniforms from the band trailer on the loading dock after school and return them to the trailer after the parade.
For the parade, call time is at 5:30 p.m. We will meet at the corner of West Avenue and Garfield, just west of the Bridge at Perkins Park. Band members are encouraged to wear their sports jerseys instead of our band tops.
The pep assembly will start at 8 p.m., and the marching band needs to be in the pep band section at 7:40, ready to perform.
Tomorrow evening, the call time is 6:15 p.m. The band will perform most of their halftime show during pre-game. During halftime, we will perform our closer just before the crowning of the queen.
Also, a reminder that all playing tests/chair auditions must be completed by next Friday. The pep band dates can be found in the band room and on the BCSD Music Calendar.
Thursday, September 21
Next Wednesday and Friday the ESMS 8th Band will be rehearsing with the Marching Band at 7:15 AM on our practice field to prepare for Friday night. Please make every effort to attend. The Homecoming Parade is Thursday, Oct. 5 at 6:00 PM. Call time is 5:30 at the corner of West Avenue and Garfield. Students involved in sports are allowed to wear their sports jerseys in lieu of our marching band coat. The band will also perform at the pep rally that night (around 7:30 PM)
Please mark your calendars now. The BHS Concert Band has been invited to perform with Western Illinois University Wind Ensemble on their December 7th concert. This is a huge honor and we will perform first at their concert. The concert begins at 7:30 PM, but I assume we will spend a good chunk of the day with them as we will also perform a combined piece with their band at the conclusion of the concert. There will be more detailed information in the future, but I want to make sure everyone has this on their calendar. All students also need to complete this form as the concert will be livestreamed.
Friday, September 8
The Marching Band should arrive by 6:15 PM tonight. Please remember your hat, plume, black socks, and black shoes. The uniforms are on the trailer. Looking forward to your performance tonight. If you haven't picked up your hat and plume, please do so before leaving school.
Sunday, August 27
Uniform fitting will be this Tuesday-Friday during 0 hour, lunch, and after school. Please make sure to get this completed this week.
Thursday, August 24
Our first game is tomorrow evening. Call time is 6:15 PM. We will NOT be wearing our uniforms. Please wear black shorts with a purple shirt. I apologize for the confusion this morning when we went outside. I thought I explained it better, but I was moving too fast since we had limited time. I will do better.
Monday, August 14
Thanks for all of your hard work at camp this year. We improved our marching, made new bonds, and did an awesome job learning drill. The beginning of this year is a bit unsettled. Our first game is the 25th and I am not sure I will be able to get the marching band uniforms assigned in those first 2 days of school. We also have to get all of our equipment moved back into the music department. It appears the only time we will have to complete this task will be Monday, August 21st in the morning. Unfortunately, we need to get all of the choral library back in the choral library so our percussion shelves are available. All who are able to help should come to the music department on Monday, August 21st at 9 AM to help us. Thanks in advance. Please check back here or on our social media for changes.
Wednesday, August 9
Camp will end at 2 PM today to make room for the food pantry.
Wednesday, July 12
Band Camp will take place at JMEC this year.
Friday, June 30
Band Camp will be August 7-11 from 8 AM - 3 PM. Please take the time to read the following information.
2022-2023
Monday, May 15
Due to construction, we are unable to open the upper bleachers. Instrumental parents will want to sit in the SW or NW bleachers and choral parents will want to sit in the SE or NE bleachers. Sit in the middle if you have both. It will hopefully make sense when you see our setup.
Tuesday, April 18
The Spring Band concert is this Thursday (hopefully you didn't forget). Call time for students is 6:30 PM and the concert will begin at 7 PM. You don't want to miss this event!!
Tuesday, March 28
Seniors: Remember you are to be in class tomorrow and Thursday so we can polish up for our Festival of Bands Concert. Class ends at 8:40 tomorrow and 8:35 on Thursday.
Friday, March 10
Please use this link to upload any appropriate photos of our trip to Pigeon Forge for the BCSD social media pages.
Monday, March 6
Students attending the music department trip will be bringing home a liability form today. This needs to be completed and initialed by the parents and students. Please bring the completed forms to the meeting on Tuesday or Wednesday morning. Emergency forms need to be turned in by Wednesday. Rules for Wonderworks have been posted to the trip site.
Tuesday, February 28
There will be a parent meeting on Tuesday, March 7th at 6 PM in the Band Room. All parents/guardians with students going on the department trip are welcome and encouraged to attend. Feel free to stay for the Music Booster meeting that begins at 7 PM.
Tuesday, February 14
Congratulations to Katherine and Jonathan on being selected for the University of Iowa Honor Band this coming weekend. Next weekend Katherine, Nenyo, Evontis, Analicia, Elaine, and Jonathan will be participating in the Western Illinois University Honor Band.
Parents - if your student signed up for the trip they will be bringing home a letter this Thursday that will include their final amount owed. Please ask them for this letter as the final payment is due on the 24th. A copy of it (minus the amount owed) will be added to the trip page.
Monday, February 6
Thank you to all of our parents who volunteered to be chaperones for our trip to Pigeon Forge. You are the best!! Unfortunately, we are only allowed 8 chaperones. After much discussion, we have selected 8 and have e-mailed them for their confirmation. We wish we could have taken more, but that wasn't an option. Thanks again.
Thursday, February 2
Trip updates have been posted. Please visit the trip page located in the home menu.
Monday, January 30
Congratulations to the Jazz Band on an excellent performance at the State Jazz Festival. I know it wasn't the Division I we all wanted, but I am more than pleased with our Division II performance considering we were missing four key players and had two sick members.
Tuesday, January 17 (a bit later in the day)
The trip page can be found in the dropdown home menu.
Tuesday, January 17
The SEIBA Honor Band is this Saturday at the University of Iowa School of Music - Voxman Building in Iowa City. We will leave the BHS loading dock at 8:00 AM Students received an information sheet with their music should you have more questions.
State Jazz Band is next Saturday at Davenport Central. The bus will leave BHS at 9 AM. Students will need to bring some money for lunch. There are no concessions available so we will stop somewhere on our way home. The band will warm up at 11:10 and performs at 11:30. We should be on the road by 1:00 at the latest and home around 4 PM.
Our department trip is finally coming into focus. I will post the tentative itineraries on the trip page (once it is finished). The trip will be March 13 - 16 to the Pigeon Forge area and will cost $670 per student (max). Students need to sign up by this Friday to reserve a spot and a $150 deposit is due on January 31st. Stay tuned for more updates.
And finally, there is pep band tonight and Friday.
Tuesday, January 10
Congratulations to Katherine (tenor sax), Evontis (trumpet), and Kaitlyn (horn) on making the Southeast Iowa Bandmasters Association (SEIBA) Honor Band. The honor band will take place on January 21st at the Voxman Music Building at the University of Iowa. Congratulations to all who took the time to prepare for the auditions.
Thursday, January 5
The SEIBA Honor Band Auditions are this Saturday. Students have received an e-mail with their audition times and center. We will leave BHS at 8:15 am and should return home around 4PM (depending on how smoothly things run).
The music boosters are removing the downtown decorations this Saturday. Those who are able to help should meet at the Post Office at 9 AM.
Tuesday, December 20
Congratulations on your successful concerts on Sunday and Monday. Everyone performed well and I could not be more proud of each of you. Congratulations are also in order for Katherine and Jonathan on their acceptance into the University of Iowa Honor Band. Way to go!
Friday, December 2
The games are a bit earlier tonight. Please arrive at 6 for pep band.
Monday, November 21
The marching band will be #23 in the parade. Please see this map for our lineup location. Call time will be 4:45 PM.
The jazz band has been asked to perform at two holiday parties. The first is December 11th at Messiah Lutheran Church. This performance begins at 5 PM (I know some already have conflicts, but I hope we have enough to provide them with some entertainment). The second performance is on December 15 at the Golf Club. This performance is during the school day and they will provide us with a lunch.
Thursday, November 17
College honor band season is here. Please sign up at my office window if you are interested in attending any of them.
The holiday parade is next Saturday. I will announce the lineup location and call time once I receive them. Students are asked to decorate their instruments (and themselves) with Christmas lights, ornaments, etc. for the parade. Just make sure your instruments still work. We will wear our marching uniforms with Santa hats, elf ears, etc.
Tuesday, November 15
The greenery has arrived. The pick-up date will be this Thursday from 4:00-6:30 PM. We will need some student volunteers to help move it from the choir room to the courtyard.
Tuesday, November 1
The Music Boosters will need help this Saturday hanging the downtown holiday decorations. Students should meet at Perkins Park at 8 AM to load the trucks. Everything should be complete by noon. I can't help as I have Kidsymphony all day and will not be in town.
Pep band season is rapidly approaching. A list of all of the games and requirements can be found on the bulletin board, the google calendar (you should consider subscribing), and can be downloaded.
The Marching Band will once again be performing in the Holiday Parade and at the Tree Lightning immediately after at the Memorial Auditorium on Saturday, November 26. We will also be performing for Toys for Tots on December 3rd at Westland Mall beginning at 9 AM.
Monday, October 24
Congratulations to Katherine on being named the tenor saxophone alternate for the All State band. Way to go! In case you missed it (it was written the board), the band will be performing the school song and National Anthem for the swim team senior night tomorrow (Tuesday) at 6 PM. Call time is 5:45 PM.
Monday, October 17
Wow...I have done an incredibly poor job keeping social media up to date. Thanks for your hard work over the past 2 weeks and a good marching season. We are heading in the correct direction and I look forward to next season. Concert Band starts tomorrow so make sure to bring your concert instruments.
Toys for Tots has asked us the Marching Band to perform again this year. The date of the performance is December 3rd at Westland Mall. This is all I know as of now. The Holiday Parade will be on November 26th at 5:00 PM.
If you forgot your Greenery orders please bring them in tomorrow (last chance). You will be able to apply your profit to the upcoming Music Trip (more details will follow at the end of the month...I hope)
Tuesday, September 20
This is Homecoming Week and the band will be relatively busy. Thursday is the Homecoming Parade. Band members should leave their cases, uniform bags, etc. in the band room. Students can pick up their uniforms after lunch from the trailer. After the parade students should hang their uniforms back in the trailer for the game on Friday.
Call-time for the parade is 5:40 PM on Thursday in uniform. Reminder...do not bring cases, etc. to the parade. The band will meet at the corner of Garfield and West Avenue (Perkins Park west of the bridge). The parade begins at 6 PM and it looks like we will have favorable weather this year.
The pep rally will begin at 8 PM in the gym. Band members should be seated in the pep band section ready to go by 7:50 (no uniforms). After the assembly please make sure to get everything loaded on the trailer as there is no school for students on Friday.
The call time for the Homecoming Game is 6:30 PM. The band will perform part of their show during pre-game and the remainder of the show during half-time prior to the Queen ceremony.
Everyone needs to do their best to stay positive this week and be understanding of those who haven't done this before
Wednesday, August 31
Our first marching band performance is this Friday. Students should report to Bracewell Stadium by 6:15 PM. This is a bit earlier than we need, but there always seem to be a few surprises at the first performance. Uniforms will be placed in the trailer Friday morning. If you still haven't tried one on please come in before or after school. Students will pick out their hats and plume tomorrow and Friday. Please remember to bring your black shoes, socks, and gloves to the game (I will have gloves for the new members).
Per the band handbook (which everyone should have read by now) students will remain in uniform (weather permitting) while sitting in the bleachers. Please no food while in uniform.
Jazz Band will begin next Wednesday.
Wednesday, August 24
Welcome Back!! It was great to see you this morning. We have a lot of work to do before our first game next Friday. Please make sure you join the Google Classroom and complete the locker sign-up, read the handbook, sign-up for lessons, etc. The class code is c5gr4o7
We will be outside tomorrow. If everything goes smoothly I will have your coordinate sheets for the drill.
I will be doing uniform fittings before and after school, at lunch, and during study halls for those who do not have a uniform (or would like a new one). Please get this done as soon as possible as we have our first game next Friday.
Jazz Band will begin after Labor Day.
2021-2022
Tuesday, July 19
Here is a message from Mrs. Hayes....
Color guard camp 2022
For all current, new, and anyone who is interested in color guard.
August 2-5
9-12 am and 5-8 pm
BHS- meet at softball diamond in back of industrial technology building
Monday, July 11
I hope everyone had an enjoyable summer break and managed to get in some quality practice on your instrument. The drum majors and I look forward to seeing you all again. Make sure you follow the web page, Facebook, or Twitter for special announcements regarding camp. Our drum majors had an AWESOME time at their camp and have some special surprises for us.
Band Camp will be on August 2-5, and 8 from 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM at BHS. This year we will be performing music from the Broadway musical Wicked. Returning members should still have their parts from the end of the school year. Please make every effort to attend camp. We have a lot of music to learn and I would like to get a good start on our drill.
Music Calendar (most current will be found in calendar tab)
Monday, May 23
Hard to believe the school year is coming to an end. We will spend this week working on Graduation Music and Marching Band. If for some reason you still have your uniform at home bring that in ASAP so I can drop it off at the cleaners. I will have a trash barrel in the room the rest of the week so you can clean out your band lockers.
Graduation is Saturday, June 4th. Band students should arrive in the Band Room at 5:30 PM to load the busses to Bracewell. Dress for graduation is nice, but comfortable clothes. You may want to bring a towel to sit on as the chairs get pretty warm sitting in the sun all day. Students should also bring water, clothespins, and sunglasses (as you will be looking directly into the sun while we are performing).
Monday, April 25
The concert on Tuesday is free and open to the public. More information can be found here.
Wednesday, April 20
Iris Cleaners will be here Friday morning to pick up our Marching Band uniforms for their yearly cleaning. Those who still have them at home need to bring them in ASAP.
Tuesday, April 19
I hope everyone had an enjoyable Spring Break. This next week is pretty busy for the band. Our Spring Concert featuring the Concert and Jazz Band is this Thursday at 7 PM in the ESMS Auditorium. Students should arrive by 6:40 PM to warm up and tune. The jazz band will be performing first to give a few of our athletes with games a bit more time to arrive for the concert. The concert dress is all black or black bottoms with a white top.
On Tuesday, April 26th the jazz band will be performing with Jazz Reach at the Capitol Theater. The concert begins at 7 PM. We will rehearse with them on Monday (25th) and Tuesday (26th) at 4:30 PM at the Capitol. More information will be provided as I receive it
Tuesday, March 22
Can't make it to the Festival of Bands Concert tonight? Here is the link for the live stream.
Monday, March 21
The Festival of Bands Concert is tomorrow!! The concert is at the Memorial Auditorium and begins at 7:00 PM. BHS Band students should arrive by 6:45 PM dressed in nice concert clothes (black and white not required). Looking ahead, the band and jazz band will have their Spring Concert on April 21st at ESMS Auditorium beginning at 7 PM.
The jazz band will also be performing with JazzReach from New York City during their residency (April 24-26). The final concert will be at the Capitol Theater on the 26th with rehearsals to be decided (also at the Capitol Theater). I will keep you informed as I receive more details.
Tuesday, March 8
The pep band will be traveling to the State Basketball Tournament tomorrow. The bus will leave the loading dock area at 7:30 AM. Please don't be late. Reminder....wear your purple pep band t-shirt, bring a folding music stand, and don't forget your music. DO NOT bring any peanuts or peanut products on the bus. We have some students with severe nut allergies.
At the conclusion of the game, we need to immediately clear out and load the bus to make room for the next pep band. We WILL NOT be stopping for supper on the way home. We should be home around 6:00 PM.Wednesday, February 16
The cookie dough orders, weather permitting, will be delivered tomorrow. Please make sure to pick up and deliver the items ASAP. The state solo and ensemble festival is April 9th (the 1st Saturday of Spring Break) at Davenport West HS. If you are interested please sign up on my office window. Snow Bull is next month and the Music Boosters need help preparing for this event. This event will be a major fundraising event for the Music Boosters and your help will be greatly appreciated. Please sign up on my window if you can help (and read the information from the boosters).
Wednesday, February 9
Congratulations to the following students on their acceptance into the 2022 Western Illinois University Honor Band - Hannah, Analicia, Katherine, Jayah, Evontis, Kaitlyn, and Mikayla. Way to go!!
Tuesday, February 8
The Pep Band call time for Friday has been changed to 5:45 PM. There is only one game and it will begin at 6:30 PM. Our final pep band performance will be on Valentine's Day (Feb. 14) at the regular time. I hope you will all be my valentine and attend...😊
Please fill out the pep band pizza luncheon form.
Monday, January 31
Congratulations to the Jazz Band for their Division I Rating at the State Jazz Band Festival. Way to go! I am proud of your hard work.
There is pep band tonight (6:15 PM), Thursday (Clark Field House @ 5:15 PM), and Friday (6:15 PM).
Please bring in your fundraising forms as soon as possible.
Tuesday, January 18
There is pep band tonight and the January 14th pep band performance (postponed due to weather) has been rescheduled to February 1st. Please update your calendars (unless you subscribe to the google music calendar). This Saturday is the SEIBA Honor Band concert at Clear Creek Amana HS. We will be leaving BHS at 8 AM...please don't be late. Students involved with the honor band should read the information sheet that was provided in your folders.
Monday, January 10
There is no pep band tonight as I teach at Iowa Wesleyan on Mondays after school. We will not have pep band until Friday evening. Congratulations to Hannah, Katherine, Kaitlyn, and Rich on making on the SEIBA Honor Band and Honor Jazz Band.
Monday, January 3
Welcome back! I hope you all had an enjoyable break. This is a pretty slow week for us (pep band on Friday and honor band auditions on Saturday). The WIU Honor Band is next month (Feb. 24-26) and students interested in participating need to sign up on my office window by the 13th. The music boosters need help this Sunday removing the downtown decorations. Please sign up on my window if you are available and can help.
Wednesday, December 15
The jazz band performance at the Golf Club this evening has been canceled due to the expected severe weather.
Tuesday, December 14
Tuesday (12/14) - Pep Band @ 6:15 PM
Wednesday (12/15) - Jazz Band @ The Burlington Golf Club. Call time is 6 PM and we should be finished around 7:30 PM. Dress is all black
Friday (12/17) - Pep Band @ 6:15 PM
Sunday (12/19) - Winter Concert featuring the Band, Choir, and Orchestra. Call for the band is 4:10 in the Band Room. The concert will be in Carl Johanssen Gymnasium beginning at 4:30 PM. Concert Dress is Black and White with holiday accents
Monday (12/20) - Winter Jazz Concert at ESMS. Call time is 6:40 in the ESMS Cafeteria. The concert begins at 7 PM.
Friday, December 3
I received many compliments on the jazz band performance yesterday for Kiwanis. Thank you and keep up the good work. Pep tonight at 6:15ish, Marching Band is performing for Toys for Tots at Westland Mall tomorrow at 9:30 AM (call time is 9:20), and the Jazz Band will be performing for the Candlelight Dinner at Burlington Golf Club on December 15th from approximately 6:30 - 7:30 PM.
Monday, November 22
The marching band and jazz band will be busy in the coming weeks. All of the performances have already been added to the calendar, but I will post them here as well. The Holiday Parade is this Saturday. The Marching Band is #30 and will line up on the corner of Washington and 8th street with a call- time of 4:45 PM. Students will need to take their marching uniforms home today or tomorrow. Remember - wear a Santa hat, elf ears, antlers, etc. , and decorate your instrument with lights.
Upcoming performances
November 27: Marching Band @ Holiday Parade
December 2: Jazz Band @ Burlington Golf Club
December 4: Marching Band @ Toys for Tots (Westland Mall) 9:30 AM performance
December 12: Jazz Band @ Sunrise West 5:00 PM performance
Thursday, November 11
Last call for seniors to sign up for the Chicago trip. The trip will be open to all music students (to fill seats) beginning next week.
The Marching Band will be participating in the Holiday Parade and Christmas Tree Lighting on Saturday, November 27. The parade begins at 5 PM and more information will follow as I receive it. We will wear our marching uniforms with Santa Hats, Elf Ears, Reindeer Ears, etc. Students are also encouraged to decorate their instrument with lights (just make sure it still plays). I have already heard from several students who will be out of town for the holiday. Please bring me a note if you will be out of town.
Pep Band is right around the corner. Students are asked to participate in at least 6 games (this qualifies you for a pizza lunch at the end of the season), but you are more than welcome to attend more. The call time for the games is 6:15 PM and we play from half-time to half-time. Performance dates are: November 30; December 3, 7, 10, 14, 17, 21; January 7, 10, 14, 18, 28; February 3, 4, 11, 14
Thursday, October 14
My appointment has been moved to later in the day on Monday. As a result, I will be at school on Monday for Jazz Band and Marching Band....before leaving.
TRIP UPDATE: The music department will be sponsoring a trip to Chicago for seniors during our April Spring Break. Tentative plans include a day at six flags, a show, and dinner in Chicago. I know this is the same as a trip to Disney, but COVID has made many things a challenge. More information will follow. The estimated cost is $200 per person. Sign-up sheets for the senior trip will be located in our classrooms on Monday.
Plans are underway for our traditional Disney Trip to occur during the 2022-2023 school. There is no price estimate yet, but I would plan for around $800 per student.
Wednesday, October 6
The Music Boosters is holding a Pizza Ranch fundraising event on October 11th. Please sign up on my office window.
Tuesday, September 14
The Homecoming Parade is this Thursday. The band trailer will be at school so students will be able to get their uniforms prior to the parade. Please remember to pick up your gloves and shoes (if ordered) in my office. If I run out of gloves you will need to get a pair downtown. The call time for the parade is 5:40 PM at the corner of West Avenue and Garfield (same place as always). If you are in a sport you may wear that jersey instead of the band jacket. DO NOT bring your instrument case, hatbox, or uniform bag to the parade. Keep them at school.
After the parade students should CAREFULLY hang their uniforms back in the trailer (we should have time) and prepare for the pep rally in the Gym at approximately 7 PM.
The call time Friday night is 6:15 PM. We will perform Rock That, Fantasy, and the National Anthem at pre-game. Our halftime performance will be Go Get Em Grayhounds and Mamma Mia. I am not sure if we will perform In The Stone after the queen ceremony or not. It will depend on time.
REMINDER - band students are EXPECTED to be at rehearsal tomorrow during first period, not painting down at Bracewell Stadium. This is only fair if we are to be expected to perform at these Homecoming activities.
Tuesday, September 7
I hope everyone had an enjoyable Labor Day weekend. I know I did and was able to watch my daughter play soccer in person, instead of on ESPN. I have uploaded the animation of our drill to Google Classroom. Please take a moment to view them. While you are in the classroom please make sure to complete the locker sign-up and pep band t-shirt form....a lot of you missed the August deadline...SMH.
Next week is Homecoming. We will have the parade on Thursday and the game on Friday. More information to come.
Friday, August 27
Band members should be at Bracewell Stadium by 6:15 PM tonight. If the heat index is too high tonight the band will march without tops (per new guidance from IHSMA). Please remember to wear BLACK SOCKS and BLACK SHOES.
Sunday, August 22
Hard to believe tomorrow is the first day of school. There will be no 0-hour jazz band the first week of school. I will make an announcement when it will begin. Yes, we will be playing tomorrow. So don't forget your instruments. We have our first performance this Friday. I will be doing uniform fittings throughout the day. Please do not wait until the last minute. I look forward to seeing all of you!!
Monday, August 9
Due to the high heat index readings, and the probable lack of AC in the band room, band camp will be ending at 7 PM today.
Tuesday, August 3
I am excited to begin working with all of you this year. Our numbers may be down, but I know we will still have an exciting show to present. There will be NO camp this Friday. I forgot I will be out of town. I certainly hope this is not the beginning of "senior moments" for me. I also seem to have left my scores at home on my desk...so maybe it is...YIKES. Regardless, I am still excited to start the year.
Tuesday, July 20
I apologize for the lateness of this post, but it seems the pandemic has gotten me a bit out of my normal routine. Band Camp will be on August 3, 4, 5, 6, and 9 from 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM in the BHS Band Room.
Please go to the downloads page to read the band camp letter and download the forms and music.
I look forward to seeing all of you again !!
2020-2021
Tuesday, May 25
The end of the year is rapidly approaching. The band still has a few performances remaining. The jazz band will perform this Friday morning for the teachers and also for the incoming freshman in the afternoon. Please do not forget. I don't want us to end the year on a sour note.
Graduation is Saturday, June 5th. Band members should report to the Band Room at 5: 35 pm to load the busses for Bracewell Stadium. All students should dress in nice clothes (black and white is not required).
Monday, May 10
The Maurice Wright and Jazz Band Concert are tonight. For those unable to attend there will be a live stream of the Maurice Wright Concert beginning at 7 PM. Hopefully, the HuddleCam mic in the gym will pick up the music.
Monday, May 3
Our Spring Jazz Concert is this Thursday in the ESMS Auditorium. The concert will begin around 7:00 PM (depending on the arrival of track members). We look forward to seeing you at the concert. The 36th Annual Maurice Wright Music Concert will be Monday, May 10 at 7:00 PM in the BHS Gym(itorium).
Monday, April 5
I hope everyone had an enjoyable, although short, spring break. For those who may have forgotten today is an A. Conferences are this Thursday. Please use this link to schedule a time.
Thursday, March 18
Tonight is our Festival of Bands concert. Students should arrive at the Memorial Auditorium by 6:40 PM and wear black bottoms with a white or black shirt. This will be our first official concert since last year. I can hardly wait!! For those of you unable to attend you can watch the concert live on YouTube.
Monday, March 8
Trimester 3 begins today. Here are the new class codes.
Jazz Band : tmw2b7o
Symphonic Band: c5gr4o7
Brass Ensemble: wut3bso
Percussion Ensemble: sl4luaj
Woodwind Ensemble: sbwmrrz
Sunday, February 14
There is no in-person school tomorrow. Since most of you probably left your instruments at school after Friday night's pep band I will not require you to log into the google meet since we wont be able to rehearse. However, please make sure you log in to Google Classroom for your assignment. You must complete the assignment to receive credit for the day and for attendance. I will be available for lessons for those who have their instruments.
Friday, February 5
Time change for pep band tonight - please arrive by 5:45 PM if possible.
Thursday, February 4
Tomorrow is our penultimate pep band. Hope to see you there...weather permitting. The call time is 6:15 PM. Our final pep band will be on February 12th. Remember, all band members (who attended the minimum required) will get a pizza party during lunch this month.
Monday we will begin 100% in person. I can't wait to have everyone together. Please remember to remain masked when not playing and to keep your bell covers on. I would prefer not to be the first class with an outbreak.
The music department will start our A/B rotation on Monday. Monday will be an A day with Purple-Aires rehearsing during 0 hour and shared band students will be in the orchestra. Tuesday will be a B day with the Jazz Band rehearsing during 0 hour and all band students in band. Then it just keeps alternating.
Monday, February 1
Congratulations to Subrahmanyam (flute), Azriel (clarinet), and Katherine (tenor sax) on their selection to the 2021 SEIBA Honor Band. Way to represent!
Tuesday, January 12
The call time for this Friday has changed. We will now meet at 5:45. This should be a relatively short night.......unless there are a plethora of fouls.
Friday, January 8
Pep Band tonight. Remember the games are earlier tonight. The call time is 5:45 PM. The music boosters are removing the downtown decorations this Sunday. Please help if you can. Finally, please use this link to schedule your virtual conference.
Tuesday, January 5
Welcome back (a day late, but it is the thought that counts....correct?)! The pep band schedule is included in the Google Calendar on the band web page. Hopefully, there will not be too many changes, but this has been a weird school year.
Those of you auditioning for the SEIBA honor band need to let me know if you want to use your All-State recording or make it a new one. The music boosters are looking for student help to remove the downtown holiday decorations. Please sign up on my office window if you can help.
Finally, please remember to sign up for your required lessons. The link is located in the Google Classroom.
December 20
I do not think I will be able to make a virtual band concert since I didn't receive enough of the assignments on Friday evening. I will try a YouTube live concert tomorrow and Tuesday during first hour at 8:45 AM. This will not be the most polished performance and we will be missing several students due to early vacations and orchestra. You can watch the concert here: Monday or Tuesday.
There will be pep band this Tuesday at 6:15 PM. Remember, we will be sitting in the balcony socially distanced this year. Do not forget your mask or bell covers or you will not be allowed to perform. The remaining dates will be added to the Google Calendar today. Please keep in mind these dates could fluctuate.
December 11
The school board voted today to pivot back to our hybrid schedule. I can't wait to see you in person again. Unfortunately, there will be no holiday concerts this year. There just enough time. However, we will be doing a "virtual jazz band" and "virtual concert band" provided all of the students remember to get their videos submitted in time, and if I can get it completed without too many difficulties.
November 30
I sure miss working with all of you in person. Thanks for hanging in with me as we all experience "Virtual Band". Hopefully, we will be able to safely return in the near future. I am including the classroom codes below....just in case you misplaced them.
Symphonic Band - 4fs62ne
Jazz Ensemble - g2osey4
Woodwind Ensemble - mfhhgpx
Brass Ensemble - lx7iegl
Percussion Ensemble - rq5ol7j
November 19
The BHS Music Booster Greenery Pick-Up is tomorrow between 2:00 - 5:30 PM. Please don't forget. Orders can picked up at the Cafeteria entrance.
November 9
All of my courses will still meet at their regularly scheduled time via Google Classroom. I thought this was clear when the district transitioned to virtual and apologize if it wasn't. We will use the Google Meet codes which are in the banner of each class. I am posting the classroom codes for those who may need them. Lessons are scheduled via the link provided in the Marching Band Classroom.
Jazz Band: llu6kam
Marching / Concert Band: 4ahlat3
Woodwind Ensemble: ga5nxii
Brass Ensemble: 2owd2fy
Percussion Ensemble: rtonjmd
Wednesday, October 28
Reminder - The Music Boosters are hanging the downtown holiday decorations this Sunday. I know a few of you have already signed up, but we can always use more help. If you are able to help please sign up on my office window. I hope to be back in time, but it depends on my flight.
Reminder 2 - Please remember you are supposed to sign in to the Google Meet on your virtual day. The virtual day isn't a day off. Students are expected to sign on and participate in rehearsal (most of you are already doing this, but there are a few who need to remember)
Reminder 3 - The Music Booster Greenery forms are due tomorrow.
Friday, October 16
The BHS Music Booster Greenery sale has begun. Here is the information from the boosters....
Hey Folks! The excitement is here! For several years the BHS Music Boosters has done a holiday wreath and greenery sale. This fundraiser goes to future trips/activities for Orchestra, Band, Choir, Drama, & Color Guard students. Profits from this fundraiser go to the kids for the future trip/activities. This is just one of the beautiful wreaths that they will be selling. Today 'A' day students went home with their packets and tomorrow the 'B' day students will receive theirs. There is also a online option to buy or send one as a gift! Students will be selling until Oct 27th. Help these kids reach their goals towards their once in a life time trip/activities. Also as always... Thank you for supporting the BHS Students and their Teachers!!
Monday, October 5
I am not surprised, but the Holiday Parade has been canceled. More information can be found here.
Thursday, October 1
Fall conferences are Thursday, October 8th. Please use the following link to schedule a time for a virtual conference. Click to schedule your conference.
Wednesday, September 23
As of now, the Homecoming Parade is on. Band students should meet at Perkins Park at 5:30 PM tomorrow. Our uniform will be jeans and a white shirt (or your Fall Sports jersey). If anything changes I will let you know via the web page or through social media. The call time for Friday is 6:00 PM.
Monday, September 14
Each Band student will receive 2 tickets (maybe 4) from me on Wednesday and Thursday. These tickets will allow your family members to attend the game and purchase a ticket. These tickets are used to make sure we keep our attendance level at the recommended percentage of capacity.
Sunday, September 13
Our first performance is this Friday at Bracewell Stadium and it also will be Senior Night. Call Time is 6:30 PM. We will not be using the band trailer this year and we will not be using Clark Field House. Students are responsible for getting their instruments to Bracewell. The band will social distance down by the waterfall. Dress for the game will be blue jeans and a white shirt (you all should have one since we wear white shirts at our concerts).
Thursday, September 10
Homecoming activities have been rescheduled for the 24th (parade) and 25th (game)and Senior Night to the 18th. Seniors, please fill out a senior form and return to me by next Friday.
Tuesday, September 8
I finally found that missing music and it is now in the download section. Make sure you are logged into your .gapps account (or just download it from Google Classroom)
Thursday, August 27
I can't wait to see all of you next week. Unfortunately, I will only be here on Monday and Tuesday. My family is finally able to have my grandmother's funeral and I will be gone Wednesday-Friday.
Please be sure to bring your Chromebook as we will be signing up for Google Classroom during rehearsal. If you haven't downloaded and printed off your music please do so. I would like to begin rehearsing it on Monday.
Jazz Band will not begin until after Labor Day.
Friday, August 21
I am sure you have all heard by now, but we are delaying the start of school by one week. As a result, we will not be performing at the game next Friday (plus there was an issue with our floor and we probably wouldn't have been able to use the band room next week anyway). I plan on uploading our marching band music today so you will have something to do next week. You will need to be on your Chromebook or logged into your gapps account to view / download the music. Stay healthy, mask up, social distance, wash your hands, and I will see you on the 31st.
Monday, August 17
The band room is nearly finished, but if any of you are free on Wednesday from 12:00-2:00 or Thursday from 10:00 - 1:00 I/we could use your help. The band lockers and percussion shelving were returned today. I also started the band uniforms during my lunch break, but there are still plenty of uniforms, hats, choir robes, the entire contents of the percussion closets, and instruments to be returned. If you can help please come to the school and enter via the cafeteria doors. BE SURE TO WEAR A MASK. Thanks in advance.
Thursday, August 13
There have been changes to the calendar...most notably the Football Schedule. Please download the new calendar and make changes to your calendars. Our first performance will now be August 28th. See you soon.
Saturday, July 18
BAND CAMP CANCELED FOR THIS YEAR. There have been a lot of changes this week, and I am sure there will probably be more.
First and foremost, the Iowa High School Music Association has canceled the State Marching Band Festival (as have several other states).
All State auditions will be online this year without recalls. There will be more information in the coming weeks, but for now, work on your scales and solo.
The band room will look different once we return to school. They have begun asbestos abatement and will be putting in a new floor (I am not sure when they will be finished and I can begin putting the room back in order).
I will delay passing (if at all) out uniforms until I can do it safely. Trying on uniform coats, hats, and pants in the midst of a pandemic is not something that is recommended. Instead of wearing the school marching band uniform, I plan to use a band t-shirt (students will keep and wash at home), black shorts (any type of black, mesh athletic short that students own will work), and tennis shoes (any color/brand that students already own) throughout the fall.
We will still perform at home football games (unless something else changes), but we will not march (maybe a little, still thinking about that). For now, plan on performing a different show at each game in a block formation so we can maintain the appropriate distance.
Monday, July 13
More information than you probably want, but I felt it was worth sharing. Aerosol Study
Wednesday, June 24
I hope everyone is doing well and finding some time to practice your instrument. I have found keeping a routine is beneficial for me. I get my exercise and practice all in before 11 AM and then I can do whatever I want for the remainder of the day. Of course, I probably wake up earlier than most of you.
There is still a lot of uncertainty about what school will look like in August but I will keep you informed here. I am certain the marching band will be quite different this year. I haven't written a routine yet since I suspect we will have to maintain social distance on the field. Nonetheless, I am excited to see and work with all of you again.
I have scheduled our camps for the following dates, although this is subject change as I receive more guidance from the school and state. Drum Line will have camp August 4-7 from 5:00 - 6:30 PM in the Band Room. The entire band will have camp August 10-14 from 5:00 - 8:00 PM in the Band Room.
2019-2020
Tuesday, May 5
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FROM BHS. Please bring your school instrument and music back at this time. I believe 9-11 will be occurring on May 18 and 19.
This Thursday and Friday, May 7th and 8th, from 9:00 AM until 3:00 PM we are asking you to stop by the high school and drop off your Chromebook, textbooks and any other school materials you may have in your possession. You may also collect your cap and gown (if you have paid for it or bring the amount owed with you) and any materials you may have left in your locker at school. We will also have materials from the industrial technology building as well as the music department.
This will be done in a drive up format, you will not even have to leave the comfort of your vehicle. We ask that you drive up into the parking lot near the cafeteria doors and wait in your car. We will collect your items and then have the items you left at school brought out to you. If you have any questions please contact BHS.
***WHAT: Locker and school material pick up / school material drop off / chromebook turn in
***WHEN: Thursday, May 7 and Friday, May 8
9AM - 3PM
***WHERE: Parking lot near the cafeteria doors
9th-11th graders will be able to pick up and drop off at a later date. Stay tuned!
Monday, April 27
Thank you to the students who are taking the time and participating in our digital learning activities. It is the highlight of my dad when I get to hear your recordings, compositions, and read your papers. I know this is far from a perfect situation, but thanks. I heard several creative compositions from the chrome experiments assignment. Here is one of them. Maybe it will motivate some of you to participate
Thursday, April 16
Message from our food department - Because of the predicted storm on Friday, we will be handing out today's and Friday's meals at our meal sites today. If you are a family who takes advantage of our free meals you will only need to pick up today for the remainder of the week.
Tuesday, April 14
Please do the assignments. I have kept them simple and yet very few of you are following through. Please let me know if you have any questions or problems.
Saturday April 4
Please make sure to check your google classroom. I am trying to provide some opportunities for you as we move ahead in these uncertain times. I hope everyone is staying healthy. See below for a message regarding food delivery.
Free School Meals for All Children
We are going to continue our food distribution at both North Hill and BHS(11-1 Mon.-Fri.). In addition, we are going to start one of our mobile routes on Monday, April 6th. These mobile routes will go to designated spots in the community and hand out meals to any children 18 years and younger during a scheduled time. If you were able to go to BHS or North Hill for pick up please continue to do so. This will help us to continue to be efficient in our meal production and distribution.
**ROUTE ONE - STARTING ON MONDAY APRIL 6th**
10:55-11:15 Timberline Mobile Home Park - Beaverdale
11:30-11:50 Used Car Lot (Lennox Ave. - South of Dillion’s BBQ)
12:30-12:50 Stone Gardens - Community Building Parking Lot
We will start the 2nd route in the near future. Please continue to monitor social media and teachers' communications to their students about future announcements.
If you have any questions about our meal programs please call our school closure phone number. (319)753-9698 Press 2 for foodservice.
Tuesday, March 24
I hope everyone had as relaxing a Spring Break as possible. We are in uncharted territory as we begin this new phase. In all of my years of teaching, I never imagined I would be confronted with this challenge. I hope you will all take advantage of our google classroom, it will not be perfect, but I hope to provide some meaningful exercises and activities for you. I even hope to be able to provide some online lessons in the future, but this may not work as I live in the country and my internet may not be up to it. I hope our time apart is short and I look forward to teaching you in person again.
Monday, March 16
The IHSMA has cancelled the State Solo and Ensemble and Large Group Festivals. More information can be found here. Enjoy your Spring Break.
Thursday, March 5
Concert night! I can hardly wait. I can't wait to showcase what you have learned. Also, the Music Boosters have a fundraiser at Pizza Ranch on April 20th from 5-8. They need 5 student volunteers from each area. Don't miss out on this easy silver cord opportunity.
Wednesday, March 4
Festival of Bands is tomorrow evening at Memorial Auditorium. Students should be on the stage ready to go at 6:45 PM. The concert begins at 7 PM. The dress code is nice clothes. Please don't ruin it for everyone or we will return to our normal black and white for this concert.
The SEIBA Jazz Festival is this Saturday at West High School in Iowa City. Students need to arrive at 7:40 AM to begin loading the bus. The band will warm-up at 10:05 AM, perform at 10:30 AM (center 4), and have a clinic at 10:55 AM. Please plan on eating at the concession stand provided by their music boosters...it is normally quite good. I hope to be on the road by 12:30 PM. Students are to wear all black for this event.
Monday, February 24
The pep band pizza party (for those who met the requirements) will be this Thursday during each lunch. Hopefully, all of those invited took the time to fill out the google form. If not, there may not be enough pizza or the kind you like.
Thursday, February 20
Last call for solo and ensemble entries. See the post from January 23rd. Students involved in the WIU Honor Band will be leaving today at 4:00 PM (or sooner if possible). More information can be found at http://www.wiu.edu/cofac/bands/ensembles/symphonic_wind_ensemble/2020%20HB%20Tentative%20Schedule.pdf
Thursday, February 6
The pep band season is nearly over. Do you have your minimum attendance complete? If not, come tomorrow night. Call time is 6:30 PM. We also have a game next Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. I will probably cancel Thursday and Friday since the choir has their pops concert. More on that next week.
Thursday, January 23
Please fill out this form if you are planning on participating in the State Solo and Ensemble Festival on Saturday, April 6th at Davenport West HS (even if you have already told me).
Friday, January 17
Due to the inclement weather there is no pep band (or game and dance) tonight.
Friday, January 10
IMPORTANT: Tonight's pep band has been canceled.
IMPORTANT: The SEIBA Auditions have been postponed due to the Winter Storm Warning. Auditions will now be Saturday, January 25th at Fairfield HS and the performance has been moved to Wednesday, February 5th.
Tuesday, January 7
Call time for tonight's Pep Band is 6:15, not 6:30. Hopefully, I will get these differing start times with our new conference straightened out in my head.
Congratulations to the following students on their acceptance into the Augustana College Honor Band: Subrahmanyam, Elena, Katie, Mikaela, Katherine, Reece, Jayah, and Kody.
Friday, December 13
No Pep Band tonight .... you know why if you were in class. Call time Sunday is 4:10 PM. Percussion needs to be there by 4 PM to move the equipment into the gym. Make sure to wear all black or black bottoms and white tops. You can add holiday colors/accents to your clothing. The jazz band will be performing at the Rotary Luncheon on Monday.
Wednesday, December 4
There are several events in the upcoming days. Please consider subscribing to the calendar so you don't miss any.
Friday, Dec. 6 - Pep Band
Monday, Dec. 9 - Jazz Band Performance @ Klein Center. We will leave at 1:30 PM and perform at 2 PM. We will return to BHS around 2:45.
Thursday, Dec. 12 - WIU Flute Masterclass in the Band Room 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM. Flute students will need their instruments.
Friday, Dec. 13 - Pep Band
Sunday, Dec. 15 - Holiday Concert. BHS Gym @ 4:30 PM. More information later.
Monday, Dec. 15 - Jazz Band Performance @ Comfort Suites (Rotary Club). We will leave school around 11:30 AM. More information to come.
Monday, Dec. 16 - Holiday Jazz Concert. ESMS Auditorium @ 7:00 PM. More information later.
Tuesday, Dec. 17 - Pep Band
Friday, November 29
I hope everyone had an enjoyable Thanksgiving. The Holiday Parade is tomorrow. Call time is 4:45 PM behind the bread factory. Please see the map (we are #17). Remember to wear a Santa hat, reindeer antlers, elf ears, etc. and to decorate your instrument with the lights. If the weather is questionable I will post information here and Facebook. I will be at BHS at 4:15 tomorrow for those who need to pick up their instruments or uniforms.
Friday, November 22
I made some changes to the pep calendar due to conflicts I had overlooked. There will be no pep band on February 13 and 17. I have up uploaded an updated file and added the dates to the music calendar.
The Holiday Parade is next Saturday. Call time is tentatively 4:45 PM as I haven't received our line-up information yet. I will post it here once I receive it. The band will also be performing prior to the Christmas tree lighting at the end of the parade.
Students will need to take their uniforms home on Monday or Tuesday next week. Reminder - we do not wear our hats for this parade. Please wear a Santa Hat, Reindeer Antlers, or Elf Ears. Students are also encouraged to decorate their instruments with the lights (just make sure it still plays).
Friday, November 8
Pep Band is right around the corner. You can find the tentative schedule in the downloads folder.
Wednesday, October 30
No excuses, but I will try and update this page more frequently. Congratulations to the band students who auditioned this past weekend for the All-State Band. I heard most of your auditions and they were very good. Just remember the odds of making the band are extremely low in many sections. There are sign up sheets for upcoming honor bands on my office window. Please sign up if you are interested.
REMINDER - The BHS Music Boosters are hanging the downtown decorations this Sunday. Please help if you are available (I will be in Omaha this weekend for my daughter's soccer game). Students and parents should meet at the Perkins Park Shelter at 7:45 AM.
Wednesday, October 16
Senior Night, MS Band Night, and our final home football game are this Friday. Call time is 6 PM. Seniors and their parents should be lined up, in uniform, and ready to go by 6:20 PM. They will introduce the senior football players first and then senior band members. We will begin our pre game performance as soon as the cross country seniors are introduced. I am looking forward to being able to perform our entire show for the first time without any other half-time interruptions.
Friday, October 11
Sorry for the late update. I have family in town visiting from Phoenix. I will be at BHS tomorrow morning from about 9:30 AM - 9:45 AM in case anyone forgot their instrument. Please come to the loading dock entrance. It will be cold tomorrow, so please dress warm. I found a schedule online and it appears we will perform sometime after 10:30 AM, but please arrive by 10:00 AM just in case. We should be finished by 11 AM.
Tuesday, October 1
Seniors - please turn in your senior night forms to me ASAP. They can be picked up in the Activities Office. Senior Night will be before the game on Friday, October 18th. We will also have MS Band Night at this game. Rehearsals with the 8th-grade band will be on October 9th and 18th at 7:10 AM.
Friday, September 27
Call time for tonight is 6:00 PM. There is a JV game first, but if there is a weather delay they will cancel/postpone the JV game so they can get the Varsity game started without too much delay. I will not make any decision on our performance until later this evening. Hopefully, we can get our performance in.
Thursday, September 12
Sorry for the late notice, but the heat index is higher than I expected. Band students should not wear uniforms (or hats) tonight for the parade. Please wear nice shorts and a BHS t-shirt or sports jersey.
Monday, September 9
Homecoming Week update. I will update as necessary throughout the week.
Parade - Thursday at Perkins Park. Call time is 5:30 PM with the parade beginning at 6. Band members will need to be dropped off in uniform and with their instrument. Band members can wear their sports jersey or cheer uniform so they can represent both the band and their sport. The trailer will be at BHS Thursday afternoon so students will be able to get their uniforms. After the parade band members need to neatly hang their uniforms back in the trailer. The pep rally will begin at 8 PM (band members need to be in the gym by 7:50). Following the pep rally, there is a bonfire where the band will play the school song.
Friday - Early morning pep rally with WQAD. Band members should arrive by 5:15 AM as they want us in place around 5:30 AM. Band members will need to wear a Grayhound shirt (wear your new booster shirt if you purchased one) and khakis (no athletic shorts) since I don't think I will be able to get the trailer down to Bracewell. The band is scheduled for TV time around 6 AM & 6:55 AM...could be more. There will be ONE bus to RETURN band members to BHS. The district wasn't able to get anymore due to morning bus routes. Call time for the game Friday evening is 6 PM.
Thanks for your patience this week. Homecoming is always busy and I appreciate everything you do...even if I don't always say it.
Thursday, September 5
Great job today. It is nice to have the opener complete. Keep up the good work. Next week is Homecoming week and the band will be pretty busy and will post more information next week (remember what I said this morning). I just found out that we will be doing another WQAD pep rally on Friday, September 13th (just like last year) at Bracewell Stadium. Band members will need to arrive by 5:15 AM. I will ask the Music Boosters to get us some breakfast since there wasn't any left for us last year.
Friday, August 30
Game Day!! Reminder, call time is 6:00 PM tonight at Bracewell Stadium. Jazz Band will begin Thursday (September 5th). The Marching Band has been asked to perform at the Alzheimer's Walk at the Port of Burlington again this year. The event will take place on Saturday, October 12 at 10:30 AM. Students will not need their uniforms, but should wear Grayhound-themed tops.
Tuesday, August 27
Our first performance is this Friday. Please arrive at Bracewell Stadium by 6 PM. We will not wear gloves at this performance and I doubt the shoes will be delivered in time. Please make every effort to come in during 0 hour, study halls, or lunch to get fitted for a uniform. I will try and do some during class, but we all know how that worked out today.
Saturday, August 24
The first day of school is nearly here. Jazz Band will begin after Labor Day. I will make an announcement the first week of school and post exact date on the web page. Students enrolled in Band/Orchestra combo will have Orchestra the first day of school.
The first week of school will be extremely hectic, so please remain patient. We need to get all uniforms fitted, assigned, and loaded on the trailer. I am hoping all returning members will keep the same uniform, if not, let me know ASAP.
Our first performance will be Friday, August 30. Call time is 6:00 PM. We will not march much (if at all) at the first game, but will do a standing performance. There is a presentation during half time so we will not be able to perform all of our music.
Friday, August 16
Reminder, camp will finish at 7:00 pm tonight. Thanks for a great week. We have made great progress on the music.
Wednesday, August 14
It was great seeing everyone last night. I am looking forward to working with you all of this year. Please try and spend a little time each day working on the music. Our first football game is the first Friday of school.
Monday, August 12
Band Camp begins tomorrow at 5 PM. We will spend most of the time on music and some basic marching. I hope to have a roster sometime soon so I can finish our drill. Looking forward to seeing everyone.
Wednesday, July 10
I hope everyone had an enjoyable summer break and managed to get in some quality practice on your instrument. I currently do not have access to the 2019-2020 database in Infinite Campus to create mailing labels and hope you will find this information on our web page.
Band Camp will be August 13th - 16th from 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM at BHS (Drumline will meet August 6th - 8th from 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM). This year we will be performing The Music of Queen. Please make every effort to attend camp. We have a lot of music to learn to learn and I would like to get a good start on our drill.
The 2019 show music, medical form, and uniform sizing sheet can all be downloaded from the band web page. Please bring your completed medical form and sizing sheet with you to band camp.
Take a moment to mark all band performances on your calendar (a detailed calendar can be found on the band web page). If you have a conflict with a performance please let me know as soon as possible so I can arrange an alternative assignment. Whenever possible I will give two weeks notice of additional performances. Please keep in mind - work is not an excuse to miss a performance.
Monday, July 1
We still need help with RAGBRAI. Please sign up to help using the following links.
2018-2019
Monday, May 20
The Music and Athletic Booster clubs are looking for towels. They can be old, new, or used but need to be usable. BCHS is an overnight stop for RAGBRAI and hundreds of bikers will be showering and will need towels to dry off with. Please drop off any towels in the Activities Office or Band Room. Thanks for your help.
Monday, May 13th
Great job last night! It was a wonderful night of music making with many great soloists. I am extremely proud to be your director. Thanks again! Only one more performance to go (weather permitting) at graduation on June 2nd.
Monday, May 6th
I apologize for the lack of updates, but I have quite busy and don't have a planning period this term to keep things updated. Due to sporting conflicts the Jazz Band and Jazz Choir Concert will be this Sunday at 3:00 PM in the Edward Stone MS Auditorium. I can't think of a better way to celebrate Mother's Day. The annual Maurice Wright concert will be next Monday in the BHS Gym beginning at 7 PM.
Monday, April 1st
The Jazz Band will be the opening act for Civic Music (Presidio Brass) next Tuesday, April 9. More details to follow, but I am guessing we will perform from 7:15 - 7:25 PM. The Presidio Brass will also give a masterclass in the band room at 11 AM with a pizza lunch afterwards. All students are invited to attend.
Thursday, March 14
Sorry about the lack of updates. No excuses, I just need to do better. Call time tonight is 6:45 at the Memorial Auditorium. The Festival of Bands will begin at 7 PM and should be finished around 8 PM.
Tuesday, February 26
The recording of the WIU Honor Band can be found here. Links for the other 4 concerts from the weekend can be found here.
Monday, February 18
This Wednesday (Feb. 20th) the Western Illinois University Woodwind Quintet will conduct a masterclass/performance for us in the band room. The masterclass will run from 2:00 PM until the end of the day. This is an excellent opportunity for you and I am sure you will enjoy the performance. Please let your teachers know.
Monday, February 4
The rescheduled basketball games begin this week. The pep band will not perform tonight (I teach at Iowa Wesleyan on Monday's). The pep band will perform tomorrow at the normal time, Thursday will have a call time of 4:30 PM, and we will not perform on Friday due to the rescheduled Vocal Pops Concert.
Saturday, January 26
Congratulations to the Jazz Band on their Division I rating at the State Jazz Band Festival today. Way to go!!
Tuesday, January 22
No pep band tonight. The games have been moved to tomorrow at 4:30 and 6 :00 PM. I will be out of town on Wednesday and haven't decided if there will be a pep band yet. I will let you know for sure tomorrow.
Friday, January 18
Due to the two-hour early out for weather, there will be no pep band tonight. There has been no announcement regarding the SEIBA Honor Band tomorrow or the Augustana College Honor Band on Sunday. Stay tuned for more details.
Wednesday, January 16
The games on Friday have been moved up. Call time for the pep band will be 5:15 PM this Friday. The second game will begin around 6:30 PM. Students involved in this weekends honor bands please check back here for updates due to weather.
Monday, January 7
Congratulations to Anthony on making the trumpet section of the SEIBA HS Honor Band. Proud of your accomplishment.
Friday, January 4
I hope everyone had a relaxing break and I look forward to seeing you on Monday. SEIBA Honor Band Auditions are tomorrow (Saturday, January 5). Those of you auditioning need to be at BHS by 7:45 AM. Don't forget to bring your etude book, solo, nice clothes, and some money for the concession stand lunch. Please e-mail me if you have any last minute questions.
This Sunday the Music Boosters will be taking down the Holiday Decorations. They will be meeting near the Som at 8 AM. Please bring wire clippers, ladders, etc. to help remove the bows. Once the decorations are removed they will return them to Perkins Park. Please help if you are available (Silver Cord).
Wednesday, December 19
Better late than never, but thanks to everyone on the great concerts this past Sunday and Monday. I have received numerous compliments on the performances of the Concert Band and Jazz Band. I am proud to be your director. I hope everyone has a relaxing break.
Friday, December 7
Thanks for another great week. If we keep this up who knows how good we can get. Pep Band tonight. Please be here around 6:15. Remember, we play halftime to halftime. Finally, our first Concert Band performance of the year is next Sunday. Call time is 2:40 ready to go in the BHS Band Room. The concert will begin at 3:00 and should be finished by 4:15 at the latest (hopefully we can cut down on the transition time between groups).
Next Monday, the 17th, the Jazz Band will be performing for the Rotary Lunch at Comfort Suites. Please wear nice school clothes (it doesn't haven't to be concert clothes, but it could be)
Friday, November 30
Happy Friday! Thanks for a productive week. The Western Illinois University Honor Band is in February. Interested students need to sign up on my window before Winter Break. Students selected by WIU will receive audition materials sometime in January. Pep Band has begun. Please make sure to download the schedule.
Our Holiday Concerts are right around the corner. The Concert Band Concert will be Sunday, December 16th @ 3:00 PM in the BHS Gym. The Holiday Jazz Concert will be Monday, December 17th @ 7:00 PM in the ESMS Auditorium.
Wednesday, November 21
We are number 31 in the Holiday Parade. Call time will remain at 4:45 PM. I will be at BHS at 4:15 this Saturday for those who forgot their instruments or uniforms. Our meeting location will be the corner of Washington and 8th Street (2 blocks west of Snake Alley).
Wednesday, November 14
The Holiday Parade is Saturday, November 24th. Students need to take their instruments and uniforms home with them on Friday. We will not be wearing our shakos and plumes. Please wear Santa hats, reindeer antlers, elf ears, etc. and decorate your instrument with lights and holiday decorations. Just make sure it still plays. I will post a firm call time and location once I receive information from the city (normally the Monday or Tuesday before).
Lost and found items from the marching season are located in the first practice room. Please be sure to take them home on Friday. Anything left will be donated to the Salvation Army.
Friday, November 9
Pep Band is around the corner. Please click here for a tentative schedule.
Thursday, November 8
Due to poor sales, the annual BHS Music Booster Greenery sale has been canceled. The four students who turned in orders will be receiving their order forms and money from the Boosters in the coming days. Sorry for the inconvenience. We have never had a greenery sale go this poorly.
Thursday, November 1
I am still looking for students in search of Silver Cord Hours. Civic Music is looking for 8-10 BHS Music Students to serve as ushers for their events. Please see me ASAP if interested. The next event is November 8th. This is a win-win opportunity.
Hello Dolly is this Friday (7PM), Saturday (7PM), and Sunday (3PM) in the ESMS Auditorium. Come to support your fellow musicians. We have students on the stage as well as performing in the Pit Orchestra.
The Jazz Band is performing this Saturday for the Burlington Fine Arts League GALA. Students should arrive at the Pzazz Convention Center by 6:15 PM. Our performance will begin at 6:30 PM and will be finished around 6:50 PM to give those of us in the Pit Orchestra a chance to make it to ESMS (delayed start on Saturday). Students should wear all black. The Jazz Band will also be performing at Comfort Suites on December 17th during the lunch hour (meal included).
Thursday, October 18
Interested in Silver Cord? Civic Music is looking for 8-10 BHS Music Students to serve as ushers for their events. Please see me ASAP if interested. The next event is November 8th. This is a win-win opportunity.
The Music Boosters will once again be hanging the downtown decorations. The Boosters will be hanging the decorations on Sunday, October 28th. Parents and students should meet at the Perkins Park shelter at 7:30 AM to load the wreaths. Once loaded the will head downtown to hang them. Please consider helping. This is a good fundraiser for the Music Boosters and will go much quicker with many hands. Students will earn Silver Cord for helping.
The Music Boosters need a trailer or several pickup trucks to haul the wreaths. If you have a step ladder please bring it. 10 - 12 ft work well for hanging the wreaths, and 8ft ladders work well for the bows.
Friday, October 12
Call time tomorrow is now 10:30 AM with a performance around 11. Seniors - I still need your senior night forms.
Tuesday, October 9
It is time for Concert and Symphonic Band Auditions. All materials can be found in the Marching Band Google Classroom. All students must join the class using this code b0vwd. All auditions must be submitted to the google classroom or done in person. Don't wait until the last minute.
Seniors - I need your senior forms ASAP.
Monday, October 8
Great rehearsal today. I feel much better about us than I did on Friday evening (hopefully you do too). I hope to finish the second song tomorrow. Don't forget...this Saturday we are performing at the Port of Burlington. Call time is 9:30 AM and we perform from 10:00-10:15ish. We will not be wearing uniforms as I don't believe there will be any room for our trailer. Please wear something purple or gray.
Thursday, October 4
Call time for Friday night is 6:30 PM. We will be performing our Phantom of the Opera Show for the first time. We will only march the opener...just didn't have time to learn any more in four days.
The next Civic Music Student Concert is Thursday, October 11. The concert will feature Farewell Angelina an all-female country group from Nashville. If you would like to attend please sign up on my office window.
The Music Boosters are looking for any parents who may have a trailer to help with the hanging of the downtown holiday decorations. If you have one please contact the Music Boosters.
The Marching Band is still performing at the Alzheimer's Walk on Saturday, October 13th. Call time is 9:30 am. Students will need to wear blue jeans and a grayhound hoodie, sweatshirt, etc. We are not wearing uniforms.
I somehow managed to delete the old news from September. Not sure how I managed to do that.
2017-2018
Wednesday, May 30
Graduation is this Sunday. Band students should arrive at BHS at 1:30 to get their instruments and load the buses. We will start performing around 2:15 PM and the ceremony should be complete by 4:30 pm. Remember to bring water, sunscreen, and clothespins. Students do not need to wear black and white, but are expected to dress in nice clothes. If it is 85 degrees or warmer you may wear dress shorts.
Tuesday, May 15
Congratulations on a great concert last night (despite the high heat in the gym). I received numerous compliments on you performance. Only one major performance left....Graduation. Special thanks to the seniors for a wonderful four years and for the awesome trumpet lamp!
Tuesday, May 1
The BHS Jazz Concert will be Sunday, May 13th at 3:00 PM in the ESMS Auditorium. This concert was also scheduled for May 10th, but there are too many conflicts with sporting events. Please make sure to update your calendars.
Sunday, March 25
Hard to believe we leave for Disney tomorrow. Please be at BHS (cafeteria side) by 7:15 AM to begin loading the coaches. Remember, all instruments go in the first two coaches. Please e-mail or text if you have any last minute questions. I am gone this weekend for symphony concerts, but will be checking my phone. See you tomorrow.
Chaperones should be at BHS at 7 AM so we can get prepared and get ourselves situated in the coach before the students arrive.
Tuesday, March 20
I just uploaded a suggested packing list for our Disney Trip. I should have a complete itinerary from Burlington Trailways tonight or early tomorrow. Reminder - I will be gone tomorrow. I expect you to be on your best behavior for my sub. She has not worked with bands before and I do not want any bad reports on my classes.
Wednesday, March 14
Congratulations to both bands on a fine Spring Concert last night. I was pleased with the performance of both groups. Keep up the good work. Disney will be our next performance.
Sunday, March 11
Don't forget, Southeast Iowa Band Concert this evening at First UMC. Concert begins at 6:00 PM. Extra credit for those who can attend.
The BHS Spring Band Concert is Tuesday, March 13th at 7:00 PM in the ESMS Auditorium. The Symphonic Band will warm-up at 6:30 PM and the Concert Band at 6:45 PM. Please help spread the word.
Tuesday, February 21
Students attending the WIU Showcase of Bands Honor Band need to bring in all forms ASAP! We will leave from the loading dock at 3:50 tomorrow. Please be sure to read all materials.
There will be a Disney Parent meeting on Wednesday, March 7 at 7:00 PM in the BHS Cafeteria. We will go over all rules and expectations for the trip and answer any questions. Representatives from Burlington Trailways will also be on hand to answer questions.
Saturday, January 27
Congratulations to the Jazz Ensemble on receiving a Division 1 at the State Jazz Festival today. Way to go and keep up the good work!
Monday, January 22
Students interested in participating in the State Solo and Ensemble festival need to sign up on my office window by the first week of February. The event is April 14th (same day Prom was scheduled).
Friday, January 19
Another weekend, another honor band. Those involved with the SEIBA Honor Band should meet in the Band Room at 8:15 AM tomorrow. Make sure to read the information sheet and bring money for lunch.
Pep Band tonight. Be here at 6:15 and help cheer our Grayhound Girls to victory.
Be sure to check the Disney page for an updated itinerary later today.
Tuesday, January 16
No pep band tonight. The teams are out of town tonight. Students involved with the SEIBA Honor Band need to be at BHS this Saturday by 8:15 AM. Please read the information sheet that was included in your folder.
Minor updates to the Disney page. I will send an updated payment information this Friday. All students need to try and have their accounts paid in full by the end of the month.
Thursday, January 11
The Music Boosters need your help this Sunday to remove the downtown decorations. They will begin removing the Jefferson Street decorations at 8:00 AM this Sunday. Once the decorations are removed they need to be returned to the Perkins Park Shelter House. The trailer will probably arrive around 9:00 AM if everything goes smoothly. Please help. The more people there the quicker it will be finished.
Saturday, January 6
Congratulations to Grace (flute), Lydia (flute), Vidya (clarinet), and Wilson (tuba) on their acceptance into the Southeast Iowa Bandmasters Association Honor Band. Great job on your auditions. To those who didn't make it, keep trying. The experience of todays audition will make it easier for you next year. The concert will be at Iowa City West HS on Saturday, January 20th.
Congratulations to Grace (flute), Elena (bassoon) Vidya (clarinet), Christina (bass clarinet), Micah (alto), Anthony (trumpet), and Wilson (tuba) on their acceptance into the Augustana College Honor Band next Sunday and Monday. Their concert will be Monday, January 15 at 6:30 PM.
The Music Boosters will not be removing the downtown decorations tomorrow. The plan is to them next Sunday. Please plan on helping as it makes it go much quicker. The boosters will have a meeting this Tuesday and I am sure this will be on the agenda.
Tuesday, December 19
Very nice job at our concerts on Sunday on Monday. I have received numerous compliments on the performances. Keep up the good work and enjoy your vacation...only 2 more days. Pep band tonight and Friday.
Students need to sign up for rooms and transportation for our trip to Orlando. The lists will be on my office door or window tomorrow morning. Start thinking about who you want to room with (four students per room) and who you want to sit next to on the motor coach.
Monday, December 4
Wow, sorry about the lack of updates. Pep Band has started. Students can download a schedule, or see a copy of it the band room. Don't forget - Pies on Parade orders and money are due December 12th. Our Winter Band Concert will be Sunday, December 17th at 3:00 PM in the BHS Gym. Students are to wear black (bottom) and white (top) for this concert. The Winter Jazz Concert will be Monday, December 18th at 7:00 PM in the ESMS Auditorium. The Jazz Ensemble will also be performing for the Rotary Club at Comfort Suites on the 18th during the noon hour.
Friday, November 24
I hope everyone had an enjoyable Thanksgiving. The Holiday Parade is tomorrow at 5 PM. We are entry #31 and will be located at the corner of Washington and N 8th Street. I will be at the HS around 4 PM for those who need to get their instruments and uniforms. Don't forget to decorate with lights and wear Santa Hats, antlers, etc.
Saturday, November 18
The BHS Music Booster Greenery Sale arrives this Monday. All students need to pick up their items after school from the band room.
Thursday, November 9
The BHS Band will be performing at Disney on Tuesday, March 27, 2018. The time and location are still to be determined. I have no other Disney updates at this time.
Pep Band season is right around the corner. The performances have all been added to the calendar and can also be downloaded.
Tuesday, October 31
There are several honor bands coming up. If you would like to participate the signup sheets are on my office window. The SEIBA Honor Band uses the same audition materials as All State. The others are selected by the college/university.
Are you interested in participating in the State Solo and Ensemble Festival? If so, see me so we can start selecting a solo or ensemble. This is a great way to improve your musicianship and earn points towards your band letter.
Wednesday, October 25
The Partytime Fundraiser is tentatively scheduled for delivery tomorrow (Thursday, October 26). Please make sure all items are picked up from the Band Room before you go home.
Friday, October 20
On Saturday, October 28th the Music Boosters will be checking the lights for the downtown lights. We will begin replacing the lights at 8 AM in the Perkins Park Barn. Students are encouraged to help and will earn Silver Cord Hours. This will go much quicker with many hands.
On Sunday, October 29th we will hang the downtown decorations. Once again, we need as many people to help as possible. We will meet at Perkins Park at 8 AM to load the decorations and will begin hanging them around 8:30 AM. Again, we need as many students and parents as possible to help. Students will also earn Silver Cord Hours for this day.
I have helped with this event for at least 15 years and it goes much quicker and smoother with many hands. Please consider helping and show up next weekend.
Wednesday, October 18
The Music Booster Greenery Sale began today. Every student should have received an order form. If not, you can download one here. All checks should be made payable to BHS Music Boosters. Order forms are due in my office on Thursday, November 2nd. Expected delivery is the week of November 20.
I haven't heard from PartyTime Fundraising, but I expect the orders will be arriving anytime in the next two weeks.
Tuesday, October 10
Seniors, please get your senior night forms turned in to me ASAP. I e-mailed you the form over a week ago and only half of you have filled it out. I need these completed by tomorrow so I can type the script for Friday's game.
Wednesday, October 4
Good rehearsal today. Sorry about the rain....if it only would have waited 45 more seconds. Seniors-check your e-mail today. I am sending you a form for senior night. These need to be completed by this weekend.
Friday, September 29
Our third game is tonight. The band will be performing their second show of the season. Band members should arrive by 6:30 PM. Don't forget your black socks, black shoes, shako, and plume.
The Party Time fundraiser is Monday, October 2 by 3:30 PM.
Monday, September 25
Fireball Tuesday is here. Band students need to report to BHS at 2:25 to get in uniform and get ready. We will leave BHS at 2:45 PM and will be bussed back to BHS at the conclusion of the event. There is evidently a VIP area we will be in near 4th and Jefferson. I am planning on performing all 6 show tunes and cadences with approximately 30 minutes between sets. They would like us to be at the foot of Snake Alley at 5:30 PM for some type dedication. I know this is going to be a long evening, but I am sure the school district and city will be grateful.
Friday, September 22
The Homecoming Game is tonight. Call time is 6:30 PM. We will perform two of our halftime selections at pre-game and one at halftime. Don't forget- black shoes and black socks. We will not wear gloves this year. I thought I had ordered them, but evidently I did not.
Fireball Run is on Tuesday, Sept. 26. I still don't know exactly what they are expecting from us. We will be in full uniform and will probably perform selections from both of our shows. I hope to have more information on Monday. Thanks for your patience.
On Wednesday, Sept. 27 and Friday, Sept. 29 we will have morning rehearsal beginning at 7:30 AM. This is for the 8th grade band students. Be on the field ready to go by 7:30 AM.
Tuesday, September 19
Reminder - as in past years band students are expected to be at rehearsal during 1st hour tomorrow (before going to field decorating). Otherwise, the band will not be participating in Thursday's Homecoming events (parade, pep rally, bonfire).
Monday, September 18
We will begin our first fundraiser this week. It will run until Monday, October 2nd. This will give everyone two weekends. Our next fundraiser will be the Music Booster Greenery sale and probably a Pies on Parade fundraiser.
Thursday is a busy day for the band. The Homecoming Parade begins at 6 PM and band members should arrive by 5:30 PM. The line up is near West Avenue and Garfield. Students should plan on walking or car pooling to the start of the parade. After the parade is the carnival, pep rally, and bonfire. We will perform at the pep rally around 8:00 PM and the bonfire shortly after the pep rally is complete.
Students need to be sure to hang uniforms neatly on the trailer after the parade. DO NOT leave them hanging in the band room.
Monday, September 11
Please e-mail myself, Mr. Flaherty, or Miss Wells if you would like an updated account balance for the Disney Trip. There is a possibility I will be able to input this information into your Infinite Campus portal. Please be patient. All students need to have at least $250 in their accounts by the end of September.
The Southeast Iowa Symphony is in need of student volunteers to work their Pops Concert (Music at the Movies - John Williams) on September, 24th at 4:30 in the Memorial Auditorium. Students should wear black and white for the event and will receive Silver Cord points. Sign up on my office window.
Monday, September 4
September is an especially busy month for the Marching Band. Please look at all of the upcoming events. I do not have any information on the Fireball Run. I will pass it on as soon as I receive it. I will be updating the Disney Page later this evening.
Tuesday, August 29
Our first half time performance is this Friday. Members should arrive at Bracewell Stadium by 6:30 PM to unload the trailer and begin to dress in uniforms. If you haven't tried on a uniform, please do so ASAP. You can come in during lunch, study hall, or after school. Don't forget to wear black socks and shoes. We will not wear gloves this Friday. My order has not arrived.
Tuesday, August 22
There will be no jazz band this week. Auditions for the two bands will begin on Monday, August 28.
Wednesday, August 16
The Marching Band will be performing during the assembly on the first day of school. If you haven't downloaded the school song and show music, please do so now. All music can be located in the downloads folder, just make sure you are logged into your gapps account.
Thursday, August 10
Thanks for a productive mini-camp. We are off to a good start and I look forward to seeing everyone on the first day of school. Be sure to bring in your medical forms and statement of understandings. If any band students want to help out the BCSD employee band for our back to school inservice please come to our rehearsal on August 15 at 7 PM. You can use this towards your band letter points.
Tuesday, August 1
Good turn out for our first drum line rehearsal of the year. Reminder for those who weren't there...rehearsal is tomorrow from 5-6. Due to a conflict in my schedule we will meet at 1 PM on Thursday and Friday.
Wednesday, July 12
There will be no summer mailing, or it will be very late, as I am unable to access Infinite Campus to print mailing labels...sorry for the inconvenience. The letter, all forms, and music (will need to be logged in with your gapps address) can be found via the downloads tab. Please help spread the word. Camp dates are as follows - Drumline August 1st - 4th and Band Camp August 7th - 10th.
Tuesday, June 20
Hope everyone is enjoying their summer vacation. I hope to have information added to the Disney tab sometime this month. Just waiting on some updated information from Burlington Trailways. In the mean time, visit the following links to hear our marching shows for this year....KISS and Uprising. If you want your music please e-mail and I will send you a .pdf.
2016-2017
Graduation is this Sunday. Band members (and choir) should meet at BHS at 1:15 PM on Sunday. We will leave for Bracewell Stadium at 1:30 PM and begin our performance at 2:15 PM. Please wear dress clothes (black and white not necessary, but OK). Make sure to bring clothes pins, or put your music in a binder.
Saturday, May 13
Video of the Spring Jazz Concert is now available. Follow the links to view (Jazz Band | Jazz Ensemble).
Tuesday, May 9
Our 33rd annual Maurice Wright Concert is next Monday at 7 PM in the BHS Gym(atorium). The Music Boosters are asking Music Students to bring in baked goods for the bake sale at the end of the concert. Thanks for your help.
Thursday, May 4
Are you interested in a summer music camp? If so, you can pick up an application in my office, or download it from the web page. Applications are due in my office on Friday, May 12th. The BHS Jazz Bands Concert is next Friday (May 12th) at ESMS. The concert will begin at 6:00 PM. Hope to see you there.
Friday, April 21
The BHS Spring Jazz Band concert date has changed again. We will have our concert Friday, May 12 @ 6:00 PM. This will allow our students attending the International Science Fair in Los Angeles to perform.
Thursday, April 13
Way to go BHS Band, Orchestra, and Choir Students!!! We are proud of you.
Monday, April 10
Congratulations to all performers on a job well done at the Iowa High School Music Association Solo and Ensemble Festival. All of our students received Division I's and II's. Keep up the good work and lets take even more students next year. Special congratulations to Christina who was selected as the Outstanding Performer of her center. Way to go!!!
Thursday, April 6
The Festival of Bands Concert is tonight at 7:00 PM at the Memorial Auditorium. Students should arrive at 6:45 PM, or as soon as possible after your sporting event. Percussionists should arrive by 6:30 at the latest to complete the set up.
Wednesday, March 29
Butterbraid Fundraising will be here today. Please pick up your product after school in the band room. You are financially responsible for any product that spoils that you leave or forget to pick up.
Monday, March 27
Great job at the concert yesterday. I was pleased with the performance of both bands. I received several compliments on your behalf. Thanks for all of your hard work.
Our next performance will be Thursday, April 6th at the Festival of Bands. This concert will be at the Memorial Auditorium and begins at 7:00 PM.
SOLO AND ENSEMBLE PARTICIPANTS - Rehearsals with our accompanist will be Thursday (3/30), Monday (4/3), and Thursday (4/6) from 4:30 - 6:00 PM. The Solo and Ensemble Festival will be held at Davenport West HS on Saturday, April 8th. See me for your times.
Monday, March 20
Wow, have I ever dropped the ball with updates. I will try and get back on track with weekly updates.
BAND CONCERT this Sunday at Edward Stone MS. The BHS Concert Band will present their Spring Concert at 4 PM this Sunday at ESMS. Symphonic Band will warm up at 3:25 and the Concert Band at 3:40. Dress for the concert is black and white, or black and black.
Butterbraid Fundraising forms and money are due in my office tomorrow. I need to call the order in by 4:00 PM on Tuesday.
Students participating in the State Solo and Ensemble Festival need to bring in their judge copies and accompaniment by Friday. Rehearsals with our accompanist will probably begin the week of March 27th.
Friday, March 3
BHS Music students began the first fundraiser for our 2018 trip to Walt Disney World. Hopefully your student brings home the order form, if not, you can download the front page here. The braids are $14 and the cookie dough is $16.
Thursday, February 16
Great week of rehearsals. Keep up the good work. Our final pep band performance is tomorrow night. Hope you can make it. As a small token of my appreciation there will be some pizza and pop in the cafeteria for you after halftime. WIU Honor Band Students - please remember to bring in all forms on Tuesday.
Don't forget to check your Smartmusic accounts. If you are interested in participating in the State Solo and Ensemble Festival please let me know by next Friday.
Tuesday, February 7
Congratulations to the Jazz Band on their performance at the Culver-Stockton College Jazz Festival. Way to represent our school.
Penultimate Pep Band Performance tonight. Come help us end our season on a high note. Double-header varsity game. Will be a "rockin' good time.
Monday, January 20
Congratulations to the Jazz Band and Jazz Ensemble on their performances at the State Jazz Band Festival this past Saturday. The Jazz Band earned a Division II and the Jazz Ensemble earned a Division I. Keep up the good work.
A special thank-you to my music colleagues for helping me run the festival and to the Music Boosters for taking care of the concessions. I received several comments on how smoothly everything went and how much they liked ESMS.
Next Monday, February 6, the Jazz Band will be attending the Culver-Stockton College Jazz Festival. We will be gone all day. I will be posting more information this week, as well as sending an e-mail with all of the information.
Tuesday, January 24
Gray Pep Band Tonight!! This Saturday we are hosting the State Jazz Band Festival at Edward Stone Middle School. It isn't too late if you would like to volunteer. This is an easy way to earn Silver Cord Hours. I would like help with setting up and tearing down, and general help on Saturday.
The call time for the Jazz Band is 2:20 with a 2:40 warm up and a 3:10 performance. The call for the Jazz Ensemble is 3:40 with a 4:00 warm up and a 4:30 performance. Dress for both bands will be black.
Thursday, January 19
I found out after today's rehearsals that there is only one game tomorrow night. The game begins at 7:00 PM.
SEIBA Honor Band participants should meet at the loading dock at 7:45 on Saturday. Make sure you bring some money for lunch and read the directions included with your music so there are no surprises.
Sunday, January 8
Congratulations to the Jazz Band and Jazz Ensemble on their concert today. I was pleased with your performances. Keep up the good work so we can finish the year strong.
Saturday, January 7
The Music Boosters will not be taking down the Jefferson Street decorations tomorrow. It has been rescheduled to Sunday, January 15th.
Congratulations to Vidya, Christina, and Dalton on making the SEIBA Honor Band today. Congratulations to Abgail on making the SEIBA Honor Jazz Band. Way to go!! Congratulations to Grace, Vidya, Kristen, Christina, Micah, Zach, and Dalton on making the Augustana College Honor Band.
Friday, January 6
BHS Winter Jazz Band Concert this Sunday at 3:00 PM in the ESMS Auditorium. Reminder - We are wearing black bottoms and whatever colored top you prefer. Jazz Ensemble call time is 2:30 and the Jazz Band is 2:40. Please help spread the word.
Thursday, January 5
Tomorrow is Beach Night. The Pep Band is encouraged to wear appropriate beach wear to the game. We will meet at our usual 6:15 PM and play half time to half time. Students auditioning for the SEIBA Honor Band need to meet at BHS at 7:40 AM this Saturday. We will hopefully return home around 4:00 PM. This Sunday the Music Boosters will be removing the downtown decorations on Jefferson and returning them to the Perkins Park Shelter. We need as many students and families to help as possible. Please meet at the West end of Jefferson Street at 8:00 AM.
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Monday, December 26
New web page. Hopefully I will be able to add all of the previous content in the near future (depends on what Google releases).
Monday, December 12
Good job at the concert last night. I was pleased with the performance of both bands. Tuesday night we have pep band. We will not have pep band this Friday.
Sunday, December 11
Winter Band Concert Today. The BHS Concert and Symphonic Bands will be in concert today, December 11th at 4:30 PM. The concert will be in the BHS Gym and is free and open to the public.