Welcome to the Home of the Bands of Veterans!
As one of the finest bands in middle Georgia, the Veterans Instrumental Music Department serves over 200 talented high school musicians. Located in Kathleen, Georgia the band program consists of three concert bands, percussion ensembles, jazz band, flute ensembles and the award winning Warhawk Squadron.
We have a dedicated staff that guides and encourages our amazing students both during and after school. Our expectations are high, and our students and staff always rise to the occasion. Our supportive parent community and the Veterans Band Boosters help raise funds that support our efforts, making it possible for us to continue to provide an excellent band experience for all. Our students truly exemplify the Veterans High School Motto, "Excellence is the Standard, not the Goal."
Important Links
In an effort to chart a path forward, this past week, I have met with the Booster Executive Board, Marching Band Staff and student leaders. Below are the outcomes of those meetings, however, please understand everything is tentative and subject to change:
Considerations
Below are two important meetings that, in my opinion, could shape what our immediate future holds:
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On Monday, July 20th the Georgia High School Association (GHSA) Board of Trustees is meeting to discuss fall sports. GHSA is the governing board for state athletics.
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On Tuesday, July 21st the Houston County Board of Education is meeting.
I will update everyone should any significant decision be made that impacts our band program.
Marching Band Obligation Adjustments
Due to the current state of affairs, we are reducing the marching band obligation to the following:
New students: $300 ($250 annual fee + $50 shoes)
Returning Students: $250 annual fee
The following fees will remain the same and are in addition to the fees listed above:
Instrument Rental: $65 (fee for students using a school owned instrument)
Percussion Stick Fee: $25 (additional fee for percussion)
Leadership Meeting:
We will have a marching band leadership meeting on Tuesday at 4:00pm.
Virtual Sectionals
In an effort for each section to meet each other and get information regarding marching band, we will have virtual sectionals that will last from 30 - 45 min each. While we do not intend to play, students should bring their instruments (if they have it) so we can teach the basics of how to hold it. (Still plan on attending if you don’t have an instrument). Dates are as follows:
Flute - Wednesday, July 22nd at 12:00pm
Clarinet - Wednesday, July 22nd at 1:00pm
Alto Sax & Low Reeds - Wednesday, July 22nd at 2:00pm
Mellophone - Wednesday, July 22nd at 3:00pm
Guard - Wednesday, July 22nd at 4:00pm
Trumpet - Thursday, July 23rd at 12:00pm
Trombone - Thursday, July 23rd at 1:00pm
Tuba & Euphonium - Thursday, July 23rd at 2:00pm
Percussion - Thursday, July 23rd at 3:00pm
A link will be emailed, posted in the Google Classroom and sent via Remind approx. 24 hours before the meeting.
Calendar Updates
As of now, drumline & front ensemble auditions will be Saturday August 1st.
We are working to update and finalize a 2020 marching band calendar. As soon as we receive more guidance and concrete information, weI will publish it.
Conclusion:
Many things are still unknown at this time and I assure you that as more concrete information becomes available, it will be shared. I could use colloquialisms such as New Normal, Unprecedented Times, etc., however, I think the phrase that best sums up our immediate future is “Next Normal.” Whether we like it or not, schools are opening in our district. As we draw closer to the start of school, I urge everyone to focus on what we can control and put our energy into what comes next.
I appreciate your patience and flexibility.
