Band Camp Update: Here's the scoop you've all been waiting for. Reporting time for band camp is 7:00 a.m. on Monday, August 17th at the 'tailgate' entrance to the Band Room at Howell High School. Buses will depart promptly at 8:00 a.m.

Check-in: Students will be required to check in before boarding the bus. If you haven't already done so, please be sure to turn in your completed medical forms. Students will not be allowed to board the bus without a completed form. Please note: The form requires a signature by a parent/guardian. Parents dropping off their students might want to wait until after they've checked in before leaving to be sure that all the necessary forms are completed.

Return: Anticipated return time: Between 3:00 p.m - 5:00 p.m. on Friday, August 21st. Check the blog as we'll post the most up-to-date information as it's available on Friday.

Things to Bring: Instrument, extra instrument parts (like reeds, neck straps, oil, sticks, etc), bedding (pillow, sleeping bag/blanket, sheet), towel(s), jacket (you'll march even if its cold and/or rainy), sunscreen, insect repellant, flashlight, water bottle (with name on it), music flip folder, pencil, clothing, swim suit, sunglasses, TWO pairs of shoes that can bet dirty.

PLEASE DON'T BRING: Televisions; video games, stereos; coolers; food/snacks (will be provided); cigarettes, alochol, drugs, weapons/knives, or anything else forbidden in the school Code of Conduct.

FYI: There's still time to vote for your favorite destination for the 2009/2010 Band Trip. Boston is leading by a very slight margin with Disney World and New York close behind. E-mail your vote to cstone827@yahoo.com.

If you have any questions, please contact me at (734) 604-3546 (cell) or by e-mail at cstone827@yahoo.com

Have fun,
Carol

Marching Band Season is beginning soon! Before heading off to band camp we have three very important dates.

Wednesday, August 12
This is Squad Leader Day. If you passed the squad leader test you MUST attended. This is mandatory attendance! Show up from 8:00-12:00

Thursday, August 13
This is Newbie Day. We will meet to practice marching techniques before band camp and learn some of the new music for our season. It will go from 8:00-11:00 then there will be a short lunch break and then restart from 12:00-2:00. Though this is not mandatory, it is highly suggested that you attend.

Friday, August 14
This is Erribody (Everybody) Day. Primarily a follow-up of newbie day, going over commands, marching, and music. It will go from 8:00-12:00

For all three days we will meet at Howell High School. Bring water and your instrument please.

VOTE NOW: Here's your chance. . .tell us where you'd like 09/10 band trip to be. Here are your choices. . . . .

• Boston
• Branson, Missouri (supposed to be lots of fun with shows, theme parks, etc)
• Disney World
• Toronto (if info from Secretary of State is correct, passport would not be needed)
• New York
• Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island
• Chicago
• Other (please specify)

Please note: Fund raising opportunities will be provided to offset the cost of the trip. E-mail me your choice: cstone827@yahoo.com

Hope you're having a great summer.

Band Booster Update: As you may be aware, the Howell Band Boosters Association has been dealing with a very difficult situation during the past school year. Pamela Glynn, the former treasurer has not turned over any financial records for the period covering July of 2007 through August of 2008. In seeking to resolve this issue, the Band Booster Board has sought assistance from the School Administration and in conjunction with them has received legal advice from three different attorneys. Based on the advice received, the likelihood that we will be successful in obtaining the records and verifying the financial transactions of the 07/08 school year is slim. Further, pursuing the necessary legal actions would expend all of our existing funds or more. Clearly, these funds would be better spent in ways that directly benefit our band students.

In pursuing resolution of this situation, the attorneys brought to light several issues regarding the structure of the Howell High Band Boosters that need resolution. At the Band Booster meeting held on Tuesday, June 16, 2009, it was determined that Howell Band Boosters would suspend operations during the 09/10 school year as the Board works to resolve these issues. It is our hope to emerge from this transition as a stronger, more viable support arm for Howell High Band Programs.

In the meantime, the support of band parents is needed more than ever so that programs like the Marching Band tailgates, Senior recognition night, the Memorial Day Picnic, and the Band Banquet can continue. At the current time, we are seeking donations of bottled water for use at Marching Band Camp and at Marching Band performances during the upcoming football season. Please check the band blog for updates and for other opportunities to support the Howell High Band Programs.

Thank you for your patience and support during the past year. Please contact me if you have any questions or need any additional information.

Carol Stone
Treasurer
Howell Band Boosters
(734) 604-3546
e-mail: cstone827@yahoo.com

Special Band Booster Meeting: Tuesday, June 16, 2009 at 6:30 p.m. - 2nd floor conference room of Howell City Hall, 611 E. Grand River, Howell, MI. We will provide an update on the situation with the financial records for the 07-08 school year and if time permits, will discuss future fundraising opportunities.

Hope to see you there.

Carol Stone

Band Camp Update: If you haven't registered for the 2009 Marching Band Camp, there's still time. We have to submit the registration forms and final payment to the School by Friday, 6/19/09. If you have questions or need registration forms, please contact me ASAP. e-mail: cstone827@yahoo.com, cell phone: 734-604-3546, office phone: 517-540-6734.

Thanks,
Carol Stone

Hello Everyone!

Here are the placements for next year. If your name has been left off the list, please email me at jsmigell@mac.com:

2009-2010 Howell High School
Symphonic Band
(Members listed by section in ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Oboe
Brandon Pajur

Flutes
Felicia Buxton
Abbey Good
Audra Hudson
Tiffany Jones
Rebecca Kempf
Renee Ketchel
Lauren Koivu
Allison Kucera
Lauren Lys
Alyssa Mcqueen
Carolyn Prince
Darian Wolfe

Clarinets
Brittany Faba
Amanda Fauer
Danielle Mcfarland*
Darian Meininger
Henry Palmer
Kyle Robeson
Zach Wolverton

Saxophone
Mike Barrow
Cody MacDonald
Hannah Newman
Nick Jordan
Ken Schell
Saxophones cont.
Austyn Rupert
Brenden Van Eseley
Chris Wolak
John Yelinek

Trumpets
Steve Donovan
Casey Epperson
Lucy Gonzales
Alex Hayden
Kyle Maltby
Cody Murphy
Josh Queener
Victor Trapp
Jarred Trella

Horns
Libby Smith
Paul Buckner

Trombones
Kyle Brenner*
Caelen Dingman
Katie Gardner
Matt Jefferson*
Justin Kinnick
Alan Laverty
Carly Lehman

Euphonium
Bonnie Gregory
Tyler Mitchell
Jake Richardson

Tuba
Nick Monak

Percussion
Taylor Godfrey
Rest of Symph Band Percussion TBA Due to talks regarding percussion ensemble and soforth

The Following people and anyone with an asterisk next to their name need to speak with Mr. Smigell pending placement:
Jennifer Jennison*
Courtney Jacobsen
Jenna McLellan
Ashley Alcott

2009-2010 Howell High School Wind Ensemble
(Members listed by section in ALPHABETICAL ORDER)


Oboe
Josie Doefer

Flute
Kim Chappel
Ashley Garcia
Amy Henton
Libby Hobson
Nora Kandler
Abbey Michaels
Brittany Randall

Clarinet
Justin Brandt
Emily Brogan
Katelyn Green
Carly Jakrzewski
Kirsten Manos
Natalie Mcarty
Andrew Meagher
Therese Mqueen
Morgan Rote
Paige Williams

Bassoon
Joe Swift

Saxophones
Katie Bondie
Bobbie Fillinger
Jonathan Lewis
Nick Leyder
Brian Rowe
Saxophones cont.
Alex Thomas
Clayton Woll

Trumpets
Joe Brennan
David Bruce
John Galubensky
Katie Heslip
Kathleen Janowieki
Kevin Leahy
Marcus Wendel

Horns
Jacob Bair
Crystal Reimel
Jonathan Weidemann

Trombones
Evan Clifton
Connor Harlow
Trevor Smith
Troy Taylor
Sarah Williams

Euphoniums
Sean Hamman
Katie Kubiak

Tuba
Jamie Holdwick
Andrew Stone

Percussion…
Katie Schiebold
Matt Graham
The rest are TBA Due to certain discussions I need to have over who is in perc ensemble and who is in Wind ensemble

ok... more information on everything soon!

-Smigell

Hello Everyone!

First of all, CONGRATULATIONS TO MIKE BROWN, THIS YEAR'S WINNER OF THE JOHN PHILLIP SOUSA AWARD! Mike was the Drum Major of our marching band, the principal saxophonist in our wind ensemble and participated in numerous other activities and groups within the program. He is a great kid, a great musician, and we wish him the best!

As we wrap up the year, I will be thanking people on this blog. I would like to take this time thank two individuals and their companies:

Jim Gilligan and SNEDICOR'S CLEANERS for his continued ALMOST UNREAL support of our program through cleaning our uniforms. Even though times are tough, he has not wavered in his service and generosity. From the bottom of our hearts here at Howell Bands, THANK YOU!

Band Parent Alum Bruce Hundley and ADVANCE METAL ALLOYS for lending us all those great pieces of metal that the percussion class played during our last performance. THANK YOU!!

Next time we will thank boosters, parents and adults that helped the program!

-Smigell

Senior Presentation. If you're interested in a copy on DVD, which will include the HHS Bands Promo video, email Trekkie at trekker670@yahoo.com




Trekkie!
-Brian Roskamp

IMPORTANT INFO

All band members:

CONCERT TOMORROW
Thursday, May 21st
7pm

Report 6:30, Jazz Band 6:00 pm.


MARCHING BAND

Memorial Day Parade

Report to school 9:00am

Bus leaves at 9:30 to parade

Step Off 10:00am

Parade ends 11:30am

Bus returns to High School 12 noon

FREE Picnic at Howell City Park, immediately after
(See earlier posts)


All MB members: there is still time to sign up for Band Camp!!!
See Smigell for forms. We need YOU next year!!!

Many thanks to the City of Howell Mayor & City Council. They have very generously granted a waiver of the $5 per vehicle park entrance fee for Marching Band families attending the Memorial Day picnic. A special event park pass will be provided to all families attending the picnic and will be available at the concert on Thursday.

End of the Year
Band Memorial Day Picnic

When:Immediately following the Memorial Day Parade
Who: All MB members and their Families
Where: Howell Park on Thompson Lake in the Rotary Pavilion
(on top of the hill, same place as last year)

Cost: FREE Entrance into the park will probably be free or a $1.00 for band members and their families (we will let you know next week)

Please bring a dish to pass (Chips, baked goods, pop would be great!)
Hot Dogs, some side dishes and drinks will be provided.

New this year: ICE CREAM SUNDAE BAR

Please bring water balloons, water guns, bathing suits, towels, frisbees!
Can someone bring a sound system???

Make sure everyone in Marching Band knows, tell your friends!!!

Hey folks! Make sure to read the entry below, this is simply a link to the drum major audition music:

http://www.halleonard.com/audio/03744164.mp3

Thanks,

-Smigell

Just a reminder: Band Camp Registration forms along with a $50 deposit are due by Friday, May 8th. If you need forms, e-mail me at cstone827@yahoo.com and I'll get them to you ASAP.

Have a great day,
Carol Stone

THANK YOU CHAPERONES!
Thanks so much to all the parent chaperones who helped make the Lock-In a big success! Thank you, Kat, for coming back and helping all of us newbie Lock-In parents!

Hope all Bandos had a great time!

--Robin Taylor

VG RECEIPTS: If you have any VG's receipts and would like to receive credit in time to pay for band camp, you need to turn them in no later than May 10th. Please don't turn in the entire receipt, only the bottom portion with the Community Share Points. Be sure that you name is printed on the back of each receipt and they are clipped together or in an envelope. Receipts can be placed in the large manilla envelope on the bulletin board in the band room.

Hey Night Owl Parents!

We need 3-4 Chaperones for the 1 am -5 am shift for the Lock In tomorrow April 17th/18th. Email Smigell at smigellj@howellschools.com if you can help out!

Thanks, Robin Taylor

LOCK IN!
Friday, April 17th - Saturday, April 18th
Howell High School Field House (Enter at Aquatic Center)

Howell HS Band Members and Eighth Grade HWMS and TFMS Band Members ONLY
No siblings or Friends

Check-in time: 8:00 pm, No admittance after 9 pm
Pick-up: 5:00am (April 18th)
Cost: Only $10 at the Door, (must have permission slip)

Parents we need Chaperones!!!
Two shifts available:
8 pm -1 am (assist set-up)
1 am - 6 am (assist clean-up)
You are more than welcome to help all night also!
Email smigellj@howellschools.com if you can help.

Activities Include: -Swimming -Video Games (BYOS (Bring you own system) projectors and TVs provided) - Movies - Card Games - Gym like activities - Tomfoolery (supervised, naturally) -Gigantic q-tip battle arena - SWEET BANDS! - FOOD - (Füd) - phood - Fewd - fOOd - fude - fΘΘD -

Permission Slips are available at TFMS, HWMS, and HHS Band Rooms

Bring money and permission slips to the lock in, do not try to hand them in prior to this wonderful event.

--Smigell
(r.t.)

Seniors!!!

With just a little more than a month left of school, it's time to start sending in your Senior and Baby Pictures for the annual slideshow. Be sure to put your names on the back of the photos so we know who to return them to.

You are able to submit them in two forms, the first, and preferred method, is email. If you have digital copies or are able to scan the senior picture you wish to be used in the slideshow, email them to me at mbroskamp@gmail.com. Otherwise, you can submit them in the band room after Spring Break.


Trekkie! aka Brian Roskamp

Hello Everybody in the Bando Blogosphere!

A few important updates for everyone:

First, Howellpalooza has been rescheduled for April 16 at 7:00 pm.
HOWELPALLOOZA IS AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME!!! YOU MUST COME CHECK IT OUT!!! IT IS EVERYTHING ZANY AND FUNNY AND JAZZ AND ROCKIN AND AMAZING ABOUT THE BAND PROGRAM (AND SOME CHOIR TOO).


Second, the Collage Concert is on April 23 at 8:00 pm. Collage is like a hybrid concert where band and choir join forces for an awesome night of entertainment. Members of Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, and people who got a 1 at Solo and Ensemble are all invited to perform. Dress rehearsal for this is on April 21 at 7:00.

Band Camp is officially August 17 -21.

Mr. Smigell would also like to know if anybody has any questions about anything in band. If you do, please e-mail him at jsmigell@mac.com . Your answers will be posted here later.


-Cheers!

Libby Hobson, Band Reporter

Hello everyone!

Hey so the festival postings will be coming in a while... Believe it or not, this day is not over yet!

THE HOCKEY TEAM MADE IT INTO THE STATE FINALS

The athletic department has asked if we could do a pep band for the game tonight... I said HECK YES!!!!

Here are the details:

The game is at Compuware Arena. at 7pm. We need to show up around 6:40 outside the arena so we can enter together. bring your instrument, EVERY TUNE WE PLAYED IN MARCHING BAND AND PEP BAND, and wear your Howell Secret Agent Shirt (If you were not in marching band, were some kind of Howell paraphanalia). Google it (compuware arena) to get the address.

You have to find you own way there.

I will be at Howell High School 5:30pm for a little bit to let people in and get their instruments.

Pay $7.00 at the door, I write your name down, get reimbursed on Monday (Hutch has authorized)

We have a space in the arena set aside for us. I think this should be very fun!!!

Ok... that's it for now... Full festival analysis coming up soon.... Bottom line, everyone was wonderful,and I was extrememely proud of each group!

-Smigell

Hello Everyone!

Here are a couple of very important things for everyone in the bandosphere:

First, for festival performances next week, the dress code is the standard black and white with bow ties. Dates, times, and other festival reminders are in the previous post.

Second, anyone who signed up to work at the Home Show must sign up again. We will try to honor people's original time slots. VERY VERY sorry! It got organized somewhere when I cleaned my office. I promise not to touch this one this time ;)

OK... signing off for now...

-Smigell

ps. special thanks to Libby Hobson for ghostwriting this!

Hello Everyone! I suppose it is time for all of the information that you need to know about festival. Here is everything I can give you!

Because of standardized testing the week of festival, we are having two days of After school rehearsals. All students in Concert Band, Symphonic Band, and Wind Ensemble must attend the two practices next week at the times they are scheduled. they are as follows:

Tuesday, March 10th, 2009:

3:00pm-4:00pm: Concert Band

4:00pm-5:00pm: Symphonic Band

5:00pm-6:00pm: Wind Ensemble

Tuesday is especially important because Mr. James Barry, the totally sweet (seriously!) clinician from the prefest concert will be joining us that afternoon to give us additional help in preparation for festival.

Wednesday will have the exact same rehearsal schedule as Tuesday except no Totally sweet (seriously) clinician to help, just me. Folks, it is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT and required to make both these rehearsals and to MAKE IT TO FESTIVAL. This is by far the most important time of the year for these groups. If there are any problems or conflicts with these times, I need to know about it immediately.

Here are the festival times and report times as well:
PLEASE CAREFULLY READ THE TIMES SO THERE ARE NO MISUNDERSTANDINGS!

All groups will be performing at
LAKE ORION HS
495 e. scripps rd
Lake Orion, MI 48360-2249
(use this address for Google maps or mapquest)

HHS Wind Ensemble:
Friday March 13, 2009
Report time at Howell HS is 5:30PM
Depart 6:00PM
Arrive LAKE ORION HS at 7:10PM
PERFORMANCE TIME IS 8:10 PM

HHS Concert Band
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Report time 6:00 AM (So sorry!)
Depart 6:20Am
Arrive at LOHS at 7:30 am
Perform at 8:30am

HHS Symphonic Band
Saturday March 14th, 2009
Report time: 8:00 am
Depart time: 8:20am
Arrive at LOHS: 9:30
Performance time: 10:30 am

OK folks... Keep checking this as I will be adding stuff very soon about chaperons, uniforms, early departure, and home arrival times. For now, estimate arrival back about 2 hours after performance time.

-Smigell

As we did last year at this time, the Howell High School Band Program is uploading the Pre-Festival Concert performances and will be available to view on a separate blog.

UPDATE: All bands are finally uploaded, after numerous technical problems and 6.5 hours :)
You can view and make posts at: http://hhsbandsetup.blogspot.com/

Please, feel free to stop by and critique any or all the pieces, just remember to use constructive criticism. If we all work together in this, our festival performance can only improve.

-Trekkie! (Brian Roskamp)

PARENTS - WE NEED YOUR HELP. The Chamber of Commerce has extended an opportunity to the Band Boosters to handle the concessions for the Livingston Home Show on March 26-29, 2009. All of the proceeds will go to the Band Boosters & band students. We're in need of parent volunteers to work the event.

Help is needed on the following days & times:

• Thursday, March 26th - 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
• Sunday, March 29th - 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon
• Sunday, March 29th - 12:00 noon - 3:00 p.m.
• Sunday, March 29th - 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Each shift requires two parents and 4 students. Please let me know if you can help us out. I can be reached at (734) 604-3546 -cell; e-mail at cstone827@yahoo.com or at work, 517-540-6734.

Thanks,

Carol Stone

Hello everyone!

Just a reminder, there is a concert tomorrow for Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble (Tuesday, Feb 24 2009) at 7:00PM in the Howell High School Auditorium. Report time for all bands is 6:30 PM Our 2 clinicians this year are Mr. Jim Barry, Director Emeritus of Okemos High School Bands, and our very own Jeff Stimson director of bands at Three Fires Middle School. Dress is standard (black and white outfits that we wore at the holiday concert).

Festival for these three groups will either be on Friday, March 13th in the evening or Saturday, March 14th in the daytime. The site is Lake Orion HS.

Thanks!

-Smigell

Hey Band Students: Have we got a great way for you to earn money for band camp. The Howell Area Chamber of Commerce has extended an opportunity for Band Boosters to run the concession stand at the Livingston Home Show with all of the profits going to Band Boosters. The Show is scheduled for March 26th, 27th, 28th & 29th at thte High School Field House. 60% of the profits made on the concession stand will be split among the band students volunteering to work the event and deposited into your band student account. The money in your student account can be used for all things musical. . ..like band camp, music lessons, instruments, etc. A sign-up sheet will be posted in the band room later this week. Don't miss this great opportunity to earn money ! ! ! ! !PARENTS: WE NEED YOUR HELP TOO.

If you have questions, I can be reached by cell at (734) 604-3546, at work at (517) 540-6734 or by e-mail at cstone827@yahoo.com.

Carol Stone

Hello folks! for those of you who did not get directions to solo and ensemble, here is the address so you can mapquest it:

Sashabaw Middle school

5565 pine knob lane

Clarkston, mi 48346

Best of luck everyone!

-Smigell

Band Booster Meeting: There will be a special Band Booster Meeting on Tuesday, 2-10-09 at 7:00 p.m. in the Band Room to finalize plans for the concession stand at the Livingston Home Show. We're in need of parent and student volunteers to work at the concession stand. It's a great way for students to earn money for their student accounts.

If you can't make the meeting but are able to volunteer, please contact me at (734) 604-3546 or by e-mail at cstone827@yahoo.com.

Thanks,
Carol Stone

VG's RECEIPTS: Sue Kaba has volunteered to handle the VG's Receipt program. Proceeds from the VG's program are allocated directly to student accounts and can be used to pay for things like Band Camp and music lessons. Here's how the program works. Clip the bottom of your receipt where it says "Community Share Points". Seal all of our points in an envelope CLEARLY MARKED with the students name. Place the envelope in the Booster Mailbox located in the band room. Remember: Your "Community Share Points" must be clearly identified with the students name to receive the credit in your student account.

BAND BOOSTER UPDATE: A Band Booster meeting was held on Tuesday, 1/27/09. Here's the scoop.

Band Camp: Dates for band camp are August 10-14, 2009. If there are any nurses among are band parents that would be willing to attend band camp, please let me or Mr. Smigell know ASAP.

LIVINGSTON HOME SHOW FUNDRAISER: Thanks to Mrs. Donovan and the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce, the Band Boosters have been given the opportunity to run the concession stand at the Livingston Home Show scheduled for March 27 -29, 2009. All the proceeds from the concession stand will go directly to the Band Boosters. We'll need lots of parent & student involvement to run the concession stand effectively. We'd like two parents and four students for each shift (we're anticipating 2-3 hour shifts). A band Booster meeting has been scheduled for Tuesday, February 10th at 7:00 p.m. to finalize the menu and work schedules for the Home Show. We need your help. . . .please let me know ASAP if you're able to work at the concession stand.

More to come. . . ... ..

Carol Stone
(734) 604-3546
e-mail: cstone827@yahoo.com

BAND BOOSTER MEETING: Hope your holidays were great. A general meeting of the Band Boosters has been scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 27th in the band room at Howell High. Topics to be discussed include upcoming fundraisers including the concession booth at the Livingston County Home Show and Tag Day, as well as the Band Lock-in. Hope to see you all there. If you have any questions, I can be reached via cell phone at (734) 604-3546.

Have a great day,
Carol Stone

HI EVERYBODY!

Here are the Winter Chair Placements for the three large ensembles:

Concert Band:

Flute
Lauren Lys
Tiffany Jones
Renee Ketchel
Rebecca Kempf
Carolyn Prince
Felicia Buxton
Lauren Koivu
Alyssa Mcqueen
Audra Hudson
Ashley Alcott
Abbey Good
Jenna Mcclellan
Ashley Pascoe
Taylor Godfrey

Clarinets
Emily Brogan
Morgan Rote
Kyle Robeson
Zach Wolverton
Tyler Elliot
Brittany Faba
Henry Palmer
Kent Simpson


Bass Clarinet
Darian Meininger
Patrycja Garland

Saxophones
Alto Sax
Katie Bondie
Alex Thomas
Maleah Anaya
Hannah Newman
John Yelinek
Chris Wolak
Ken Barnhill



Tenor Sax
Nick Jordan
Brenden Van Esley
Mike Barrow

Baritone Sax
Austyn Rupert
Cody Mcdonald

Trumpet
Marcus Wendel
Lucy Gonzales
Cody Murphy
Steve Donovan
Joe Brennan
Josh Queener
David Bruce
Jared Trella
Victor Trapp
Kasie Epperson

French Horn
Elizabeth Smith
Crystal Reimel
Paul Buckner

Trombone
Trevor Smith
Troy Taylor
Nick Monak
Cailean Dingman
Alan Laverty
Carley Lehman
Casey Hall
Tyler Damaske

Euphonium
Tyler Mitchell
Bonnie Gregory

Tuba
Nate Mimnaugh



Percussion (Alpha Order)
Alyssa Bigliardi
Pat Cuthbertson
Matt Graham
Victoria Price
Kiley Ulrich

Symphonic Band Placements

Flute
Brittany Randall
Miranda Radelt
Jennifer Jenison
Kaitlyn Wright
Cassie Pyles
Courtney Denzel
Allison Kucera



Clarinet
Andrew Meagher
Natalie Mcarty
Amanda Fauer
Danielle McFarland


Saxophones

Alto
Brian Rowe
Corman Cabose
Ken Schell

Tenor
Jonathan Lewis

Baritone
Nick Leyder

Trumpets
John Galubensky
Matt Holmes
Brian Roskamp
Kyle Maltby
Alex Hayden
Damon Swindlehurst

Horn
Jacob Bair*



Trombones
Kyle Brenner
Matt Jefferson
Justin Kinnick

Euphonium
Jake Richardson
Shawn Hamman
Matt Dickenson**

Tuba
Chandler Pape
Cliff Spry*

Percussion
Katie Schiebold
Becca Thomas
Jacquie Hedgepeth*
Meghan Banfield*



*=Incomplete. Needs to complete test

**=Pending Recovery of Score.

Wind Ensemble
Flute
Lona Cerwinski
Libby Hobson
Nora Kandler
Ashley Garcia
Kyndra Palinkas
Kim Chappel
Abby Michaels**
Kayla Dillon**

Clarinets
Carly Jakzrewski
Joe Hillier
Kaitlyn Green
Paige Williams
Therese Mqueen
Kirsten Manos
Andrea Prado

Oboe
Josie Doefer

Saxophones
Alto
Mike Brown
Gary Schomberger
Clayton Wohl

Tenor Saxophone
Kyle Brasier
Bobby Fillinger

Baritone
Jack Palmer



Bassoon
Joe Swift
Bobby Kenney




Trumpet
Mike Block
Scott Wittla
Kevin Leahy
Kellen Reason
Katie Heslip
Erik Graham
Kathleen Janowiecki

Horn
Paul Clifton
Keana Dickson
John Weidemann *

Trombone
Connor Harlow
Evan Clifton
Ronnie Heslip
Sarah Williams

Euphonium
Katie Kubiak

Tuba
Jamie Holdwick
Andrew Stone

Percussion
TBA

In addition, here is the rehearsal and performance schedule for Livingston County Honors Band (We have ten students representing us this year! Hooray! If you are not one of these students, don't worry about the rehearsals, but please feel free to come to the concert!

Rehearsals:

Saturday Jan 31 8:30-4:00 pm at Hartland High School
Rehearsal Feb 2nd Hartland High School 8AM-3pm

Performance Monday Feb 2nd hartland High School 7:30pm (report time 6:45)

Ok... that's it for now... more on the way!!


-Smigell

Hello Everyone!  Very sorry for the lack of posts... hoping to get on a roll here...

Ok, here is all the information that I can think of that you might like to know.

Our Holiday Concert is this Tuesday, December 9, 2008 at 7pm in the Howell High School Auditorium.  The report time for all band members is 6:30 pm.  There may be an earlier report time for members of the Jazz Band and Percussion ensemble, as they have some special things to prepare in advance.  Uniform is our standard concert uniform.  This consists of the following:

Concert band:  A standard white formal shirt (with medium pleats in the front) and black bowtie on top.   On the bottom, members should wear either black pants (no jeans or sweats, please) or a school appropriate black skirt.  Members of the Concert Band were fitted last week for these shirts through Brighton Tux Shop.  The shirt costs $14.00 and the bowtie costs $3.00.  Students can pay in cash or make a check out to:  "Howell High School Bands"

Symphonic Band: Same

Wind ensemble:  Same except for gentlemen, as they will be fitted (hopefully) with a black jacket and pants provided by the school.  

Percussion ensemble: All Black

Jazz band will have a brief runthrough rehearsal tomorrow (mon 12/8/08) after school 

The three concert ensembles (bands) will be playing in a combined presentation of the beloved medley "A Charlie Brown Christmas".  For this reason, we are requiring all students to stay until the end of the concert.  Plese let me (Mr. Smigell) know in advance if there are any conflicts or problems with this so we can work it out ahead of time.  

We will be keeping busy for the week and a half after the concert and before the break.  More info to come!

-Smigell

Hey Everybody!

Just a reminder, call time for the parade today is at 5:00 pm. Be sure to dress warm and wear layers under your uniform. No jeans under your uniform please, long underwear or something of that nature would be better. See you all tonight!

Ms. Love

Hello everyone! 

Sorry its been so long since my last entry.  Here is an update on everything coming up in the near future:

There is a veteran's day assembly tomorrow.  The Wind Ensemble will be performing.  They are already pre excused for 1st and second hour.  Please wear something nice to the event.

Jazz band auditions have been extended until tomorrow and possibly wednesday.  I will definitely have the full lineup by this wednesday after school.

The first Irish Ensemble meeting is this tuesday.  We will pass out music and play a little bit, set rehearsals and try to put a piece or two together for the winter concert.

speaking of winter concert, it is coming up!! The concert is at 7pm Dec 9, 2008.  

The fantasy of lights parade is coming up as well. Rehearsals will be nov 18, 19 and 20 from 2:30-3:30 pm.  The fantasy of lights parade itself will be on friday nov 28.  Stepoff TBA.

ok.. I think that is it for now... I will blog more for you when I have more information!

-Smigell

WE MIGHT BE IN A MOVIE...

ok probably not...

but maybe...

more to come....

this was just hype...

but not completely hype...

-Smigell

READ BOTH THE ENTRIES BELOW!!! IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE CONCERT AND ABOUT THE FUNDRAISER!!!!  

On a different note, we will be playing at the football game this friday against Milford!!! Go Highlanders!

Also, Jazz band auditions will take place next week.. We hope to pass out audition pieces on wednesday.

HOPE TO SEE YOU AT THE CONCERT!!! 

-Smigell

p.s. Go sell some coney dogs!  Times are tough!  Kids, you need money!  Everybody needs to eat.  Hot dogs in moderation are not bad for you!  They are tasty!  Save up some money for band camp next year!!!

American Coney Island extends fundraiser for an additional week. Didn't have a chance to turn in your order form or maybe the order form didn't make it home. .. . well you still have time to participate in the American Coney Island fundraisers. Don't forget, $3 from the sale of each kit will go directly into your student account. Get a head start on saving for band camp or the band trip anticipated for the 09-10 school year. Order forms will be available at the concert on Tuesday and orders will be due back by Friday, 10/31/08 . . .kits will be delivered to the school on Thursday, 11-6. I can also e-mail information to you. . .just let me know. cstone@ci.howell.mi.us or cell: 734-604-3546.

Thanks
Carol

Hey Everybody!

I had my trusty student aide Gary assemble all the pertinent information for the next few days! Hooray Gary! I have added liner notes for detail... Here it is:

Concert 10-28-2008 7:00pm @ Howell High School (auditorium)

All students (Excluding color guard) report 6:30pm sharp.
Dress code: "something nice" This means no Jeans No Tennis Shoes, no t-shirts, no sweat shirts. Collared shirts, khakis, shirt and tie, knee length skirts, dresses, nice blouses, sweaters, slacks, etc. etc. are acceptable! If you have scheduling conflicts with this date, I need to know ASAP!!!

No More marching band until the Fantasy of Lights Parade (check the calendar in the september postings)
No Pep band on 10-24-2008 due to my recent injury and the price of gas (more the price of gas)
There IS Pep band 10-31-2008 (first probable playoff game, we will continue to support the team as far as they go... we will march if we make it to Ford Field.)

ATTENTION MARCHING BAND STUDENTS AND PARENTS:

This is Brian Roskamp. I am currently working on the Marching Band 2008-2009 DVD and would greatly appreciate any pictures that you have that could be incorporated into the video, either as in the main video or as an special feature photo slide show.


Pictures can be email to me at: trekker670@yahoo.com


Thanks for you help,
Brian


PS - Be sure to read the post below regarding the American Coney Island fundraiser extension.

AMERICAN CONEY SALE EXTENDED: We're extending the sale for a couple of days in order to give everyone an opportunity to earn money for their student account. Deadline for turning in your order form & payments for coney island kits has been extended until Thursday, 10/23. Pick-up of the kits will take place on Wednesday, 10/29 from 2:30 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. Let me know if you have any questions. . . .I can be reached at (734) 604-3546.

Thanks,
Carol Stone

Just wanted to remind everyone to turn in their American Coney Island Fundraiser order sheet on Friday. $3 from each sale will go directly into your student account. . . . . .

Tailgate update: We have meatballs, mac & cheese (3 pans), cheesy potatoes, cider & donuts, and various desserts. We'll also have sheet cakes to recognize the seniors.

Thanks,
Carol Stone

Senior Tailgate: Thanks to everyone that helped and contributed to the American Coney Island tailgate. . . . . we went through 200 coney dogs. Senior tailgate is Friday. Menu is swedish meatballs. Contributions so far are various desserts and donuts & Cider. We really need side dishes. Suggestions for side dishes: macaroni & cheese, baked beans, bread sticks, veggies & dip, fruit, pasta salads, etc. Bandboosters will be providing sheet cakes recognizing our seniors.

Fundraiser: Deadline for American Coney fundraiser is Friday, 10/17. You can turn order forms and payment into the bandbooster mailbox in the band room or just give them to me at the tailgate on Friday.

Let me know if you have any questions (734) 604-3546 or e-mail: cstone@ci.howell.mi.us.

Have a great week,
Carol Stone

Hello Everyone!!

I thought that this had published last night, but it aparently didn't go through.... Very sorry! Here is the information for the eighth grader guest performance and football game:

Everybody reports at 5:00 pm at the Howell High School football field.

High School Students need to have their black shoes, black socks and black howell band shirt for the rehearsal. Eighth graders dress as instructed by your Middle school band director.

We will rehearse from 5 to 5:30pm on the field, then everyone is invited for a tailgate at the band room. Boosters are providing the hotdogs and a few sides, if you would like to bring a dish to pass as well, that would be most apreciated.

High school marching band members will then get into their uniforms and everyone will line up outside the band room at 6:15.

Pregame usually starts around 6:45, and kickoff is at 7:00pm. The eighth graders are encouraged to play with us in the stands and get into the game FOR FREE!!! Unfortunately, friends and family of our wonderful guest performers must pay for admission. Eighth graders are free to depart after halftime, but may stay if they like!

Speaking of hot dogs, we are about to launch our booster fundraiser, the CONEY DOG sale!

Be sure to pick up a sheet at the band room during the tailgate for more details. Eighth graders and eighth grade parents, this is a great chance to start saving up and earning money for band camp!!!

If you have any other questions, please email me at smigellj@howellschools.com

Thanks and see you tomorrow!

-Smigell

Wow - if last nights practice with the 8th graders is any indication, the tailgate this Friday could be huge ! ! ! ! Ok - here's an update. As of now we have the Coney Dogs, chips, cookies, brownies, cider & donuts, and veggies & dip. Please help us out if you can. . . . . it looks like we'll have lots of kids to feed.

Thanks,
Carol Stonoe

Tailgate Stuff: Thanks to everyone that contributed to last Friday's tailgate. The kids must have loved it as we actually ran out of food. Tailgate on 10/10 will include coney island hotdogs provided by American Coney Island restaurant. The 8th graders & their families will be joining us so we'll need lots of food. . . ..side dishes & desserts. Suggestions include pasta salad, potato salad, coleslaw, greek salad, baked beans, veggies & dip, cider & donuts, brownies, cookies, etc. I'll keep everyone posted on what we need as the week progresses. E-mail me at cstone@ci.howell.mi.us with your contribution.

Senior Night is 10/17. Tailgate menu will be swedish meatballs and macaroni & cheese. . .it was a huge hit last year. Meatballs are all set. We'll need about 5 family size Stouffer's macaroni & cheese. Bandboosters will be providing sheet cakes in recognition of the seniors. As always, other sides & desserts are needed and very much appreciated.

Thanks to everyone that helps out. . .you're awesome.
Carol Stone

HELLO EVERYBODY!!!

Here is the layout for after school activities and special events for the week:

Monday:

All day are tryouts for the Michigan Hockey pep band gig.  The kids have received the music for the tryout and know when the rehearsals are.  Here are the times in case you forgot or didn't hear about it:

What: We sub for the University of Michigan Hockey Pep band, this year it is this Saturday oct 11, the report time is 5PM at HHS.  The kids will be picked up and driven down to Yost ice arena in Ann Arbor Michigan.  They will get a free shirt and free hotdog, and will perform for 4000 rabid Michigan fans! Hooray!  Return time is around midnight.  

Rehearsals:  The three rehearsals are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of next week (oct. 7,8,and 9) from 3:30-4:30.  

Tuesday:  There is an extra marching band rehearsal on this day!  We are rehearsing with the 8th graders from 6-8 pm  Oct. 7th.  This is in preparation for the "perform with the 8th graders" game this coming Friday Oct. 10th.  It should be a rockin' good time!

More information will be forthcoming when it becomes available.

I WOULD LIKE TO THANK EVERYONE WHO WAS INVOLVED WITH THE HOMECOMING EVENTS!! Words cannot express how proud I was of all the kids!  They worked so hard and really performed well!  HOORAY!

ok... thats it for now..

-Smigell

Rehearsals for

Thanks to all the parents that are contributing to the Homecoming Tailgate. I've been asked to update the menu so here goes: Tacos (w/cheese, lettuce, salsa, sour cream), hot buttered sweet corn, spaghetti salad, mexican rice, sugar cookies, chips, brownies, and donuts & apple cider. Sounds good doesn't it?

Happy Homecoming - see you at the tailgate.

Carol Stone

Hey Everybody!

Here is the outline for Friday:

All Marching Band students will be let go at the end of fifth hour. Come directly to the band room and grab your instrument. Head to the field house. Be sure to have all your music! We will play at the pep rally 6th hour. Drum Line and Color Guard will also perform at the pep assembly 6th hour.

At the conclusion of the pep rally, Marching Band will head out to the football field where we will have a dress rehearsal with the Homecoming Court.

After dress rehearsal, we will get into uniforms and load buses at 4 pm.

The buses will take us to Paige Field and we will step-off for the parade at 5 pm. Once we rock the parade, buses will pick us up at the Presbyterian Church and we will return to the school. Upon return, we will tailgate.

Step-off for the game is at 6:30 pm. We will play the Spy Rock show at Pregame. Please tell your parents to come to pregame if they would like to see the show. If they cannot make it, we will be playing it one final time next week.

Then we rock out at the game and cheer our highlanders on to victory!

PLEASE BRING EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR THAT DAY TO SCHOOL THAT MORNING BECAUSE YOU WILL NOT HAVE TIME TO GO HOME!!!!

ROWR!

Ok, that's all

-Ms. Love and Mr. Smigell

Tailgate Update: So far, the tailgate for Friday will include Taco's (w/cheese & lettuce), sugar cookies, brownies, chips, and cider & donuts. Thanks so much to everyone that's contributing. We still need taco 'fixins' like black olives, salsa & sour cream and side dishes like veggies & dip, fruit, salads, etc.

Tailgate for 10/10 will be coney island hotdogs. This is the kick-off for our first fundraiser of the year: American Coney Island kits. Information will be coming home soon. American Coney Island will be providing the coney island hot dogs for the tailgate. We just need to provide the side dishes.

Let me know if you need anything or have any questions. (734) 604-3546 (cell).

See you at the game,
Carol Stone

Hey Everyone!

Hi everyone! Here are the latest newsflashes:

Pep band tonight!!!!

Here is the address for Pickney:

2100 E. M-36

Pinckney, MI 48169

Report Time 6:30, wear a band shirt.

Ms. Love says, if you need to be fitted for a uniform (this means if you haven't tried one on yet this year), see me ASAP!!!! :)

Please mark your calendars, Practice Tuesday Oct. 7, 6-8 pm with the eigth-graders.

Okay Folks, that's all I got!

-Smigell

Hey everyone. . . . . it's time to start planning for the Homecoming Tailgate on 10/3. Menu is tacos. Taco shells and meat are taken care of. We're in need of taco fixins (cheese, lettuce, tomato, black olives, etc), side dishes & desserts. It looks like the tailgate will start around 5:30-5:45ish - right after the band returns from the Homecoming Parade. Let me know what you'd like to bring. . . ... . . cstone@ci.howell.mi.us or (734) 604-3546 (cell), (517) 552-5103 (home). If you can stick around, we can always use help setting-up, serving, and cleaning-up afterwards. Thanks. . . .

Carol Stone

Greetings everyone in the HHSB blogosphere!

Here is what the week looks like for us:

Monday:

Concert Band: Finish auditions

Percussion: African and rolling on keyboards

Symph: Rehearse 

W.E. Rehearse

MB: Basics Outside

Tuesday:

Concertband: Seat the band with new placements and sightread

Percussion: Rehearse anxiety, construct some new beats!

Symph:New piece

W.e. New Piece

MB: New drill for get smart and uniform fittings after rehearsal (please allow some extra time)

Wednesday 

Same as tuesday except Irish band initial meeting at 3:30pm in the HHS Band room 

Thursday

TBA with day classes, Marching band INSIDE for music.  Don't forget that there is pep band this friday as well!  (after this last road game, we are at home for a long time!) sign up in the band room

Friday 

Tba with band classes

Rehearsal for mb on the field, then there is a pep band engagement at Pinckney Lots closer!

Two new announcements:  Marching band please reserve oct 7 from 6-8 pm.  We will be practicing with the eighth graders for our joint performance that week!

Secondly, we have been invited once again to act as substitutes for the University of Michigan Hockey Pep band on oct. 11.  Information on this will be forthcoming. 

Finally, I wanted to thank EVERY SINGLE PERSON IN THE ENTIRE PROGRAM for a fantastic start to the year! Kids,  I am so lucky to be your band director!  Parents, you are doing a wonderful job with your children!  A perfect example of this is our performance at the Ann Arbor/Howell football game.  It is always tough when football loses, but I was so pleased with out playing AND our conduct at the game.  A couple of parents asked me to pass along that once again our kids were to be complimented for their polite demeanor.  Helping our kids become great citizens is just as important to me as making them great musicians.  I praise you all, yes yes I do!

-SMIGELL

Hey Marching Band: I goofed. . . . . the measurements we need for band uniforms are waist and inseam for the pants and chest and sleeve length for the jackets. Sorry for the mix-up.

Carol Stone

Hello everyone!

I have some information about the pep band gig for you tonight! This game should be very exciting! It is a little ways away, but the directions are fairly easy as Pioneer HS is at two MAJOR crossroads in Ann Arbor. Here is the address so you can googlemaps it:

Ann Arbor Pioneer HS

601 W. Stadium Blvd

Ann Arbor, MI 48103

Report time is 6:30 PM any Howell band member, MB or otherwise, is invited. Please wear a Howell band shirt and we will meet off to the side of the main stadium entrance gate. Remember you have to find your own way there and back, and to take your intstrument home with you as I probably will be going straight home from the game. You get into the football game for free though, so there are some silver linings! The weather for tonight looks perfect, so there is no chance for a cancellation, and I will be there for the entire game to supervise and watch over the young ones!

-Big shout of thanks to Robin Taylor, Giselle Palmer, Conni Brown, Carol Stone, Bob Shiebold, and Christyne McDermaid for helping get the Uniforms ready for distribution!

OK.. that's all I got for now. Make sure to read the posts below this one as well, as they have important chair, uniform, and calendar information!

-Smigell

Hey folks! Here are a couple things:

First the link to the official school calendar:

http://www.howellschools.com/schools/hhs/calendar.htm

Secondly I realized that I posted our calendar without clearly marking the events that non marching band people had to attend. I have put IN CAPS all of the events that everyone (non marching band included) attends. Hop this helps. If you are looking for the band chair placements, they are in the next post down.

2008

September

12 Football away at Milford

19 " " Pioneer

26 " " Pinckney

October

3 Hartland football at home (Homecoming and homecoming parade)

10 Brighton at home (recruiting with the 8th graders)

17 Crossover football at home (senior night)

24 Jackson football away

28 FALL CONCERT 7PM HHS AUDITORIUM

November

28 Fantasy of lights parade Downtown Howell

December

9 WINTER CONCERT HHS AUDITORIUM 7PM

Februrary

6-7 MSBOA District solo and ensemble

24 PREFESTIVAL CONCERT 7PM HHS AUDITORIUM

March 13-14 MSBOA DISTRICT FESTIVAL AT BIRMINGHAM GROVES HS

May

8,9,10 Spring Musical

21 FINAL CONCERT HHS AUDITORIUM 7PM

25 Memorial Day Downtown howell

Hey Marching Band: We'll be fitting everyone for band uniforms on Tuesday, 9/23 & Wednesday, 9/24 right after Marching Band practice. It'd be really helpful and save lots of time if you could come prepared with your measurements for both jacket (shoulder & sleeve length) & pants (waist & inseam). If you don't have or can't get your measurements, we'll have parents available at the fittings to take your measurements for you. Call me at (734) 604-3546 if you have any questions.

Carol Stone

NEWSFLASH!!! CHAIR PLACEMENTS FOR WIND ENSEMBLE AND SYMPHONIC BAND!

Ok folks.. If you are nutty enough to stay up and check, here they are! The results are sorted in chair order unless otherwise noted. Students not on this list either have not auditioned, not had an acceptable audition, or need to see Mr Smigell:

(Sorry if I got the spelling wrong on your names)

Howell High School Wind Ensemble 2008-2009 Fall Placements:

Oboe

Josie Doefer

Flutes

Nora Kandler

Libbey Hobson

Abbey Micheals

Lona Czerwinski

Kim Chapppelll 

Ashley Garcia

Kyndra Palinkas

Kayla Dillon

Clarinets 

Joe Hillier

Carly Jakzrewski

Paige Williams

Therese McQueen

Kaitlyn Green

Andrea Prado

Kirsten Manos

Saxophones

Gary Schomberger

Mike Brown

Jack Palmer

Kyle Brasier

Clayton Woll

Bobby Fillinger

Bassoon

Joe Swift

Bobby Kenney

Trumpets

Mike Block

Scott Wittla 

Kevin Leahy

Kellen Reason

Katy Heslip

Erik Graham

Kathleen Janowiecki

French Horn

Paul Clifton

Keana Dickson

John Weideman

Trombones

Connor Harlow

Ronaldo Heslip

Evan Clifton

Sarah Williams

Tuba 

Jamie Holdwick

Andrew Stone

Percussion (alpha Order) 

Meghan St. Andrew

Kevin Arney

Brett Bansale

Mike Fornwall

Howell High School 2008-2009 Symphonic Band Fall Placements:

Flute 

Miranda Radelt

Jennifer Jennison

Kaitlyn Wright

Cassie Pyles

Brittany Randall

Courtney Denzel-Jacobsen

Allison Kucera

Clarinets

Andrew Meagher

Danielle McFarland

Natalie McCarty

Amanda Fauer

Saxophones

Jonathan Lewis

Brian Rowe

Nick Leyder

Corman Cabose

Kenneth Schell

Trumpets

Scott Marvel

John Galubensky

Brian Roskamp

(The rest are in alpha order due to a retest)

Alex Hayden

Kyle Maltby

Damon Swindlehurst

French Horn 

Jacob Bair

Trombones

Kyle Brenner

Matt Jefferson

Justin Kinnick

Euphonium

Matt Dickenson

(The rest are in alpha order because they are converted from another instrument)

Shawn Hamman

Jacob Richardson

Tuba (In alpha order because they are converted from another instrument)

Chandler Pape

Cliff Spry 

Percussion (in alpha order)

Meghan Banfield

Jackie Hedgepeth

Katie Schiebold

Becca Thomas

PEP BAND AT MILFORD IS CANCELLED!! Big news flash!! The weather report got a lot worse right when I got home, and it is raining as we speak in Brighton.   It is slated to rain all night with an  80% chance in the entire Livingston/Oakland county area.  PLEASE CALL EVERYONE YOU KNOW THAT WAS PLANNING ON GOING TONIGHT AS WE DON'T WANT ANYONE TO GET STRANDED OUT THERE!!! 

Hey Band Parents - the first Band Booster meeting of the season has been scheduled for Tuesday, September 16th at 7:00 p.m. in the band room at Howell High. Regular meetings will be held on the 3rd Tuesday of every month. If you have questions or need more information, please call me at (734) 604-3546 or e-mail: cstone@ci.howell.mi.us.

See you Tuesday,
Carol Stone

Hello all!


First of all thanks to all of the parents and kids who have stepped up to my call for support! You have no idea how much it means to me! I promise I will do my part, and I won't let you down!


As you know, this is a new year, I have been saying it since we started school, and I mean to keep at it. Here is what you can expect:

-Better communication... MUCH BETTER COMMUNICATION! I PROMISE

-Better use of time in class

-Better thought-out technical exercises and skill development lessons

-Better Planning

-Better goal setting

-More creativity.

-Much better use of technology. There is a wonderful program that we are about to unveil to everyone called CHARMS. It is a web based database that consolidates calendars, forms, email alerts, payments, and registrations all into one place. It might even make the blog obsolete! Kids you will be able to print off your drill sheets for marching band. Parents, you will be able to print off itineraries! Kids and parents you will be able to... wait for it... SEE HOW MUCH MONEY IS IN YOUR STUDENT ACCOUNT (Obviously this part would be visible only to individual students and parents... each family will get a password.

-MORE MUSIC

-More opportunities to perform!

-More help for kids before and after school!

-Better attention paid to each individual student. Better evaluation and more improvement from each individual student

-More fun (Being good at what you do is fun. Having lots of chops is fun. Having significant musical moments are fun. Getting medals at festival is fun, having a sense of self worth is fun, having self confidence is fun, having a sense of accomplishment is fun. Having an aesthetic experience is fun. Rocking out is fun. Being joyous and satisfied is fun, being nice and still getting it done, working hard and having it pay off is fun, proving people wrong in a positive way is fun, helping other people succeed is fun, doing something that is good for everyone is fun etc. etc.)

Having said that, Kids, Parents, I need this from you:

-Better cleanup in the band room

-Stop leaving personal junk in the band room

-More responsibility from parents and kids to read this blog and stay on top of things (It goes both ways, if I am going to invest an hour or two every 3 days to update this thing, I am going to get REALLY ANNOYED if people still feign ignorance when they miss a deadline). While we are on the subject, if there is ever a time where you or your child has a problem getting a ride to practice or a performance, We can almost always work it out if we have enough time. If there is a conflict, we can almost always work it out if it is in advance!

-Kids, stop losing your (Fill in the blank: music, form, uniform part, etc) and claiming that you never got it in the first place.

-Kids, practice more!

-Everybody, if there is someone ANYONE who has a problem with what I am doing in class or on the stage, or is upset about ANYTHING, please talk to me first (Not much I can do about curing HIV or world peace, but everything else, we have a chance!). I am a pretty reasonable guy. Times are tough and we need to stick together. I am on your child's side.


OK.. here is what is happening for the week.

General:

We will be having auditions in all of the concert band classes (Concert, Symphonic, and Wind Ensemble) for grades and chair placement. We have three of these per year; now, in January, and in April. Symphonic band and W.E. was given this music on Thursday and Concert band was given the music on Friday. Boosters will be coming in during classes this week to fit the kids for uniforms (Notice cutting down on wasted class time?).

Our first away pep band gig will be at Milford HS this week on Friday, Sept 12, 2008. Anyone in the Band Program is eligible to participate. The activity is completely optional, and you have to get your own transportation to and from the performance. You get in the game for free, and the kids have a blast. I will be on site running our portion of the event as will at least one administrator, so you can rest assured they will be supervised.

If you are a late joiner to marching band, you must begin attending rehearsals starting monday. I also need to know the exact number so that I can properly write the drill for the rest of the season.

Parents: Please try and schedule your child's doctor appointments after 3:30 if they are in marching band. It is a class and they receive a grade for it.

Many of you asked me if you could get one of those TOTALLY SWEET (Nice Job Bri Wiepert on the design!) shirts that the band has been wearing. The answer is Yes! They are $15.00 and come in all sizes. Stay tuned for an announcement on what to do with the money...

SPECIFICS:

Monday:

Concert band: Ear to hand, tuning, practice for the auditions

Percussion: Music reading exercises, pass out first playing test. Discuss the "stomp Project"

Symphonic and W.E: Auditions! During the week, boosters will be coming in to fit kids for uniforms.

Marching Band: On the field 2:30-3:30 for Basics EVERYBODY


Tuesday-Friday

Concert band, Symphonic, and W.E. : Auditions and uniforms. Those who have already auditioned will be working on their next playing test.

Percussion: Same as Monday but replace the "Stomp" portion with African Drumming, Rhythmic exercises, Ensemble literature sight reading, and a playing test on Friday.

Marching Band: Rehearsal on the field introducing new drill for Peter Gunn and perhaps Get Smart. The exception is Thursday which will be an inside music rehearsal. All MB plans are contingent upon the weather. There will always be practice after school even if it is raining, but it will probably be inside.


I can't tell you all how proud of all the kids in marching band. Actually, I can I AM SO PROUD OF THE KIDS IN THE MARCHING BAND! They played so well on and off the field. Thanks to all the parent help too! holy smokes are things going well. (As a preemptive response to obvious question to follow; Yes of course I am proud of all my kids, but I have only had non marching band kids for 4 days so far. They will see action soon enough!)

The Day Classes are getting off to a great start too! All three concert bands and the perc ensemble have SERIOUSLY GOOD KIDS in them. We will know a lot more about skill levels after auditions, but it looks like all groups have a heck of a lot of potential. I promise to help the kids capitalize on it this year!

And now... As priomised... here is the tentative schedule for the year!

2008

September
12 Football away at Milford
19 " " Pioneer
26 " " Pinckney


October
3 Hartland football at home (Homecoming and homecoming parade, busses needed depending where the parade is)
10 brighton at home (recruiting with the 8th graders)
17 Crossover football at home (senior night)
24 Jackson football away
28 Fall Concert HHS Auditorium 7PM

November
28 Fantasy of lights parade Downtown Howell


December
9 Winter concert HHS auditorium 7pm

Februrary
6-7 MSBOA District solo and ensemble
24 prefestival concert 7pm hhs auditorium

March
13-14 Festival On the road probably at birmingham groves...

May
8,9,10 Spring Musical
21 Final Concert hhs aud 7pm
25 Memorial Day Downtown howell



This does not include the musical because I am just the pit guy. You should ask britney tyl about that. I am pretty sure it is in May.

There is also solo and ensemble feb 6 and 7th

OK folks... that literally is all I got for right now. You now know as much as I do.


-SMIGELL

oops!

One final thing... FYI


THE UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS BAND (The big one based out of Washington, DC. They are known as the "The President's Own" because they perform a lot at the White House for official state functions) IS COMING TO ANN ARBOR ON OCTOBER 22, 2008!!! WOW!!!


This is the same band that was made famous by none other than JOHN PHILLIP SOUSA (*Pause for a moment of reverence*) in the 1800's. It is still world famous and is regarded as one of the finest wind bands in the country and the world. They are performing for FREE at 7:30pm in Hill Auditorium in Ann Arbor, MI on 10/22/08

Information is obscure, but here are the facts: The only way to get tickets is to send a SELF ADDRESSED STAMPED ENVELOPE along with a written request for tickets (how old school is that?) to this address: MARINE BAND TICKETS, League Ticket Office, 911 N. UNiversity, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1265. Limit 4 per request. You need to show up and be seated by 7:15. I am just throwing this out there as something for people to do. I don't want to make field trip out of it because the way to get tickets is so sketchy. On the other hand, this is a pretty sweet little opportunity so I thought I would pass it along.
Hope to see you there!

-Smigell

It's Highlander Tailgate Time: Tailgate for Friday's game will begin at 5:00 p.m. outside the band room. Band Boosters are providing sub sandwiches and tailgaters are asked to bring a dish to share (salad, veggies & dip, dessert, chips, etc) or help us out with the cost of the food ($2.00). Band parents. . . .you're invited to join in on the fun too.

We have a special tailgate planned for the October 10th game against Brighton. The 8th graders will be visiting and Detroit's famous American Coney Island will be providing their awesome coney dogs. You won't want to miss this one.

Call or e-mail if you have any questions. (work: 517-540-6734, cell: 734-604-3546 cstone@ci.howell.mi.us).

GO HIGHLANDERS! !

Carol Stone

HELLO EVERYONE!!! NEWS FLASH! PLEASE READ!!!


Ok... first of all, after a lot thinking, I actually think this practice schedule will make more sense:

Marching Band:

Home Game Weeks:
Monday-Friday 2:30-3:30pm

Away Game Weeks:
Monday-Thursday 2:30-3:30pm

In the past we have had a monday evening rehearsal. There are a lot of people every year that have conflicts with evening rehearsals. This band is rehearsing very well. If we need to tack on time in a few places, we can, but we already have the field reserved on these days right after school AS A CLASS (that is as official as it gets), and everyone is accustomed to it, why not simplify? There will need to be one or two extra rehearsal tacked on later in the season in order to rehearse with the eighth graders, but that will be announced very soon...



SECONDLY:: I know this is short notice, but I am going to have a big moving/organizing work evening tomorrow (Thursday, Sept 4, 2008) from 3:30pm-6:30 PM. I am trying to make this year different, and I am realizing that I can't be organized with schedules, paperwork, lessonplans, and new projects until our "house" is completely in order. I have a good 5-6 carloads of equipment and music in the loft of my garage, and the Garretts (alum Michelle Garrett's folks, she is now at IU. Go Hoosiers!) have a bunch of stuff in their garage. The band library is still only half unpacked and unfiled forms and papers are already starting to pile up. PLus, the bulletin boards are bare and drab. If any of this sounds like fun (ha ha), I could use some help, both student and adult. RSVP at jsmigell@mac.com or smigellj@howellschools.com.


ok... the calendar is almost approved, and things are really going to begin to cook! Stay tuned!

TAILGATE NEWS ! for 8-28 homegame
Normally we do not provide a tailgate for the band on non-school games days....

In the spirit of "new" beginnings (principal, superintendent, new/old school ) the athletic boosters are providing a tailgate meal for the whole community for the nominal fee of $2 ....So the consesus is that everybody in the band should bring $2 and be part of that big party. We are proud of the bandos' so let's put 'em out there to be seen!

NEXT home game - September 5th - The Band Booster Board will
co-ordinate the tailgate picnic - It will be sub-sandwiches. We need donations of Chips, cookies and veggies. EVERY marching family will be asked to help with tailgates in some way this year....Doante food, work and or cash donation!

Go Highlanders!

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN!!!


Almost back to normal!

As stated before, report time is 3:00 for the game. Yes, it is very early. I am so sorry. Thing are crazy.... we will make sure that you eat something before the game (THe Kids)... the boosters will provide, donations of cash appreciated.

Kick off is at 7:pm. Pregame will be at 6:43 Pm.


The Jazz Bandos that I talked to will be rehearsing at the old Howell High School 3:30-? to get ready for the jazz gig.

Now, onto believe it or not... more important things..


THIS YEAR IS GOING TO BE GREAT!!! I have had an epiphany! Here is what I need:


LOTS OF PEOPLE TO HELP ME OUT

Ok... so more specifically:

People who do paperwork well (Parent)

People who like to keep things clean (Students or parents)

People who like to talk on the phone (Parent)

People Who can come in a couple times a week to class (Parent)

People who like to sort things and file them (students and parents)

I am going to do such a good job for you all this year! I know you will be so proud of the things the kids and i are going to do this year!


I am going to write lots of music

I am going to print up TONS of cool exercises and cool technical studies for us to get better technically.

I AM GOING TO MAKE SO MUCH MUSIC WITH THESE KIDS!!!

I am going to do what I am best at.. which is teaching kids and making music. I need help with everything else.

I will provide the Motivation and the Music, Holy cow is this year going to be sweet.

PARENTS I NEED MUSCLE, AND MONEY AND TRUST, AND GOOD IDEAS FROM YOU ALL!!! It needs to be your trust and muscle, but it doesnt have to be your money necessarily...

KIDS I NEED DEDICATION, TRUST, MUSCLE, HELPFUL ATTITUDE, HARD WORK, AN OPEN MIND, YOUR CREATIVITY, GOOD IDEAS, AND CLEAN JOKES



LETS DO THIS!!!!!!!

-Smigell

Hey Everyone!

Change in plans.

NO REHEARSAL ON WEDNESDAY!

Rehearsal at 3:00 pm on Thursday at the old HHS. Please bring your khaki shorts, black shoes, and black socks. T-shirts will be given out. They are AWESOME! I'm pumped about them and you should be too!!!

For those of you that Mr. Smigell talked to about the Jazz Band gig, there will be a practice at 3:30 on WEDNESDAY at the old HHS.

Have a great day off and get pumped for Highlander football!!!

Ms. Love

Hey folks!

The practice tomorrow is at PARKER at 7:30-9:30 AM

Same for practice wednesday.

Thursday is the GAME!!! Kick off is 7:00 pm, but I have no idea about everything else just yet... TBD.


Smigell

p.s. THE SHIRTS WILL BE SWEET! And on time!

Practice Schedule for this week:

7:30-9:30 am Tuesday at Parker

7:30-9:30 am Wednesday at Parker

5-7 pm Thursday at old HHS

If you have any questions or cannot make these rehearsals please email Mr. Smigell at jsmigell@mac.com.

Thanks and see you tomorrow!

Ms. Love

Hey everyone, this is Trekkie (Brian Roskamp).

I am going to start work on the Band Camp videos tomorrow and wanted to ask if everyone that took pictures during the week could send them to me. My email is: trekker670[at]yahoo.com (replace the [at] with @, gotta love spammers)

Thanks for your help!

ATTENTION!!! ATTENTION!!!

The new folks day has been moved to the Old Howell High School! We will be spending most of the time outside, but all of our stuff is there now, so it makes no sense to rehearse at Parker. Question and answer is a t 8 am, new person orientation begins at 9 am. There will be a break for lunch from noon to one pm, then we will be done around 3 pm.

PLEASE PASS THIS ON TO EVERYONE YOU KNOW!!!

-SMIgell

(Before you read this, make sure to read the previous entry as well, the earlier entry has all the info. This entry is more of a sermon, you have been warned) ;)

OH MY GOLLY GOODNESS GRACIOUS!!! I am almost done with the arrangement of "Get Smart" and it ROCKS!!!!! I have some bad news however (mostly for me). I dunked my phone in the sink and I have no cell phone until tomorrow. If you must get ahold of me, Best bet would be to email me at jsmigell@mac.com I will check the email hourly as I finish the arrangement and prepare for squad leader day tomorrow.

By the way, I hope you folks read this blog, as we (the boosters and I ) really do try and maintain it as a way of getting information out to you (the students and parents). Is it perfect? No. Do we update it at least every week and a half? Yup. If you look through the archives, you will see that it is the one thing that has worked for me as a form of consistently disseminating information to the public. Even with the numbers a bit down this year, there are still over 200 (thats just kids, not counting parents) of you, and one of me (plus the handful of other contributing bloggers... shouting out some thanks!). I know sometimes it takes a while to get back with you, but email at jsmigell@mac.com during the summer and smigellj@howellschools.com during the school year still is the best way to get in touch me. I do truly care about each and every one of my students, and thus by extension the parents of those students. Your questions, opinions, and concerns DO matter to me, and I promise to do my best in the face of the crazy conditions of our district and state in general. I worry sometimes that people think teachers in this state and especially this community are burnt out and have given up on kids. For me at least, that could not be farther from the truth. The kids are the reason I keep coming to work. I know for a fact that the vast majority of the teachers (and administrators) in Howell feel the same way I do. We are all happy to have jobs and are ready make this year shine!!!

Everybody in this state has felt the pinch of the economy, some more than others. The pinch is forcing everybody to do more with less and in less time than ever before. It is important that we support each other as much as possible with so many uncontrollable outside factors (like the economy) already bringing us down. I for one pledge to be more positive, less cynical, less of a complainer and be more willing to give extra to this program, and I urge you to do the same. The band is a family, and it is times like these that show us it is the family (in whatever shape or form) that sees us through.

I cant wait to start doing what I do well, which is work with kids. I can't wait to meet the new folks and I can't wait to see the vets again!

GO HIGHLANDERS!!!

-Smigell

p.s. The entry below is very important. Please read all of it as it has lots of valuable band camp info!

Hello Everyone!

This is the Band Camp Edition!


Several things:

#1. No it is not too late to sign up for band camp! Due to some extenuating circumstances and the zaniness of the district situation, we are still solidifying who is going to camp. If you contact me (Jason Smigell) By Wed, august 6, 2008, You can STILL join marching band and go to camp(Conctact email jsmigell@mac.com)! Camp is $235.00 and is from August 11-15th. It is in Hersey, Michigan. If you would like more information go to this link www.eaglevillage.org/alcabout.html

#2. If you child is going to camp, they should have filled out the Howell Med form (which acts as a permission slip) and the Eagle Village Waiver. If you are going to be a chaperone, please fill out the personnel form all of these forms are available at this link: www.howellhighlanderbands.org/faq/faq.htm PLEASE DO NOT USE ANYTHING ELSE FROM THE OLD SITE!! The information will not be correct. The forms are correct and the letter is correct if you insert the dates that you find below.

#3. If you came to the squad leader informational meeting or have contacted Mr. Smigell about being a squad leader, you are invited to come to the squad leader orientation seminar on August 7th, 2008 (This thursday). We will be going from 9am to 4 pm. Tentative location is at parker HS, but that may change so watch the blog for changes! YOU MUST ATTEND THIS SEMINAR IN ORDER TO BE A SQUAD LEADER!! PLease contact me by email if you are still interested in being a squad leader and have not yet spoken with me, or if you have a conflict with this day! All student who are not driving themselves should bring a note from a guardian or parent stating they have permission to ride in another student's vehicle. This is because we may have to travel between schools during the day.

#4. NEW PEOPLE PLEASE READ!!! As a service to the new folks (new members and new parents) we hold a NEW PERSON ORIENTATION DAY every year the friday before band camp. This year the orientation takes place on August 8th at (for now) Parker HS in the Band Room. 8am-9am will be a question answer session for students and parents, then 9-noon will be practice. Lunch will be from noon to one pm (please bring a lunch), then practice again from 1pm to 3pm. This is optional for new people (Optional but recommended, as it helps rookies to absorb all the information at band camp better), but mandatory for squad leaders.

#5. Here is the schedule for band camp:

Monday August 11th, 2008:

Doors open at the band room of Old Howell High School (Yay!) 7:00 am

Busses depart: 8:00 am

Arrive Eagle village 11:30 am

lunch... Rehearse... dinner, campfire, go to sleep

Much rehearsing at band camp but lots of fun too! Evening activities include movie night, talent show (skits etc, start thinking now folks!), a (closely chaperoned) DANCE!!!, and possible game night depending on the weather. Freetime activities include swimming, basketball, napping, boardgames, chilin out, pooping and locking, breakdancing (if you can), cards, touch football, reading a nice book, listening to music, etc. Kids will be given 8 hours to sleep each night, and will not be rehearsed more than 9 hours each day (usually more like 7) This leaves lots of time for eating (the food is good!) and (supervised) FUN!!

Friday August 15, 2008
Noon... get on busses and come home

Somewhere between 3 and 5 pm: arrive back at the Old Howell High School (Yay!)


#6. Tidbits FYI:

No dress code other than the school code of conduct (no excessive skin or droopy pants) The hat rule is waived because you want to keep the sun off your face. No clothing with beer/booze/bad stuff/drugs/tobacco/naked people/ etc on it.

Weather looks good for the first half of next week at camp, (sunny, high 70s, low 60s) but that could change on a dime. Make sure to pack extra socks, a rain poncho, extra underwear, and a pair of athletic shoes that can get dirty.

Flip flops are fine for after rehearsal, but kids for their own safety MUST HAVE ATHLETIC SHOES FOR PRACTICE! They don't have to be expensive, but they must be closed toe with an athletic sole and proper ankle/arch support. I know that there are lots of "hybrid" shoes/sandal/unknown things going on with shoes these days. As long as they fit the above description, that will do for rehearsal (NOT PERFORMANCE, HOWEVER. more on that some other time). I will say that I purchased a pair of sandal hybrids this summer and found them lacking and my feet hurt, but I am a bit (just a bit!) overweight and 35.

I always go to the emergency room at least once each band camp with a kid. Every once in a while it is for a cold they caught before band camp or a bee sting (see meds rules below) but mostly it is for not following these guidelines for "Happy Camping"

a. Bring a flashlight and only use the paths at night! Don't tromp around in the woods after dark on the way back to the cabin! (Sprained ankles)

b. Wear sunscreen every day, even when it is cloudy! (Sunburn)

c. Drink water every time we tell you to drink. AND, don't drink too much soda pop! (Dehydration, heat exaustion)

d. Wear good shoes with clean socks (blisters)

e. Eat a full but sensible portion at every meal. You burn plenty of calories so fuel your engine and fuel it right! (light headedness, low blood sugar, feeling pooped).

e. Go to sleep at lights out! (no emergency room visits, kids just get cranky, sad, and useless)

f. If you are hurt or feeling sick!! Tell someone! Many times the solution can be simple if we help you out early! WE CARE ABOUT YOU AND WANT YOU TO HAVE A GOOD TIME!!!



Couple more tidbits:

-Kids can have inhalers and epi pens on their person, but all other meds must be checked in with the nurse.

-NO ILLEGAL SUBSTANCES! KIDS WILL BE SENT HOME IF FOUND WITH THEM!

-Kids, if you are a vegetarian, vegan or meat only (ha ha), or if you have religious/allergic food restrictions, please let us know in advance. The kitchen can acommodate you if they know far enough ahead.


Ok... that's it!


-Smigell