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Band Members and Parents,
Many changes have occurred in our program since the end of school, and I feel that it is important to make sure everyone associated with our band knows from me exactly where things stand as of today (6/28).
As everyone knows, Mr. Parker has moved over to Coweta as their head director. Yesterday, Mr. Koehn informed me that a position had opened up, and that he was moving to Coweta as well. I would like to give my personal and professional thanks to both of them for their work in building our program to a very high level of success, not only with the high school, but at all grade levels. Coweta is a growing district, and I wish them well in beginning a new tradition of excellence at a school with a well-established reputation as a successful program in marching, concert and jazz.
We have hired two new directors for our program: Mr. Adam Van Curen and Mr. Matt Hartung. Mr. Van Curen is a tremendous young teacher who just finished his Masters degree at OSU, and who has taught previously at Ponca City and Jenks. Mr. Hartung should be well-known to many of our band family: he was an intern here in the fall of 2004 and has spent the last two years running programs at Pawhuska and Hominy schools. I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to work with these successful professionals, and expect the entire program to achieve continued growth and success.
Because of the significant transition, I have made the decision to cancel the trip to the St. Louis BOA contest this coming Fall Break. I feel that it will be difficult to continue the momentum we have built the last two years with a brand new teaching staff, new drill writers and new marching technicians. This is not to say that we will lower our programs expectations for defending our OBA Grand Championship, but it is a proper decision in light of all of the changes taking place internally. We will keep the show theme and music.
We have a tremendously accomplished group of students in our program, and it is a blessing that this years band has such a wealth of experience. I will be asking much more of the individuals to demonstrate leadership, and mentoring our younger members.
In place of the BOA Contest, I will research a Spring trip for our program
possibly to St. Louis, Kansas City or Dallas. There are many concert performance opportunities at that time of year, so I will keep everyone updated as to the change of plans. I will make sure we maintain the same trip budget level as we have planned for BOA.
Also, because of the change in directors, the Thursday, July 12th rehearsal is being cancelled. I need the additional time to meet with the new team and plan our strategy for July 19th, 26th and Band Camp beginning on July 30th. Im sorry for any additional inconvenience.
The bottom line is this: our program has a long tradition of excellence because of one consistent factor: our fabulous students. The Pride of Bixby IS our band members, and I couldnt be prouder to once again have the opportunity to teach, motivate and watch all of you perform. You are an outstanding band, and I will expect that each and every band member will maintain their superior level of individual preparation and be ready to have a great fall contest season.
Get your music learned. Make sure you are in good physical condition. Be ready to show our new teachers what the Pride of Bixby is all about.
I will see everyone on July 19th beginning at 8:00 AM.
RWAGNER
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