Last week, 13 talented students from Southeast Bulloch High School's band program were selected to perform at the Southeast United States Honor Band at the American Band Association Hall of Fame in Troy, Alabama.
For three days, these dedicated musicians honed their skills under the guidance of some of the nation's top conductors and composers: Dr. Michael Burch-Pesses (Pacific University, OR), Dr. Charles Maguire (Keys Conservatory, Las Vegas), Dr. Chadwick Kamei (Pearl City, HI), and Terrence Cobb (Homewood HS, AL). They also had the rare opportunity to work face-to-face with renowned composer Carol Brittin Chambers on her pieces.
During the event, several of the student musicians had outstanding achievements. Eight students earned spots in the top ensemble, and three students earned first-chair honors in their ensembles.
Music education and experiences like this build discipline, teamwork, and creativity, which help prepare students for a lifetime of success. The Southeast Bulloch High School marching and symphonic band programs are under the direction of Matt Olsen. Each of Bulloch County Schools' middle and high schools have a symphonic band program, and the high schools also have marching bands.
While student musicians may become part of these programs at any time, parents and students may want to consider enrolling in their middle school's band program beginning in sixth grade, which is a key foundational band year for interested students.
If you have a fifth-grade student, it's not too early to speak to a middle school band teacher about how to enroll your child in band as your child prepares to rise to sixth grade and choose elective courses.
