March Update

Good afternoon, Highwood Band Families!

There has been a lot happening over the last few weeks in the band program!

Earlier this month, our Symphonic Band students had the opportunity to watch a performance in our own band room put on by the University of Lethbridge Wind Ensemble under the direction of Dr. Holly DeCaigny. After the performance, our students were treated to a workshop where they had the opportunity to sit in and play some very challenging repertoire with University level students!

Over the past couple of weeks, our own students have also had the opportunity to mentor students from Senator Riley, when they traveled out to SABC to teach instrumental workshops to Grade 7 and 8 students, who will one day join us at Highwood. This has been a longstanding tradition, and many of our Grade 11/12 students still recall the mentors they had the chance to rub shoulders with many years ago!

Edmonton Cantando Festival

We have received our numbers of students travelling to Edmonton this year to perform at the Edmonton Cantando Festival, April 12th to 14th. If you missed filling out the interest form, please send Mr. Wiest or Mr. Stearn a message to let them know if your son or daughter will be travelling. Students will have the opportunity to perform at the Winspear, Yardbird Suite, attend two evening performances, participate in instrumental workshops, and spend a day at West Edmonton Mall. More information will be going home about this in the coming weeks, and fees for the trip will be posted to your child's EdSembli account.

Upcoming Band Clinic

Next week, on March 26th, our students will also have the opportunity to work with retired FSD38 band teacher, Brent Pierce. Brent Pierce served as president of the Alberta Band Association for many years, is a recipient of the Elkhorn Band Teacher of the Year Award, and instructed in multiple schools throughout the Foothills for many years. Brent will bring a wealth of expertise to our students, who are diligently preparing for their upcoming Festivals. These clinics will occur during the first two blocks of the day on March 26th, so please ensure your child is in attendance and coming to class early to set up.

Finally, please be supporting your child by encouraging them to bring their instrument home regularly, attending all planned sectionals, and reaching out for extra assistance where required. With festival season approaching soon, it is all hands on deck! The success of every individual Highwood musician ensures the success of the whole ensemble, and program.

Have a great week ahead!