ALRIGHT PEOPLE, TIME TO SUCK IT UP AND DO THE BEST WE CAN!!!
I have to admit, I was a little alarmed when I heard that there was no school today. It is not the end of the world, however. We will do the best we can, that is all that can be asked of us.
Tomorrow and Friday, we will be doing a festival runthrough in all bands. This will consist of:
1. a brief warm up
2. a runthrough of the songs
3. a sight reading practice.
BE READY TO GO!!! THERE WILL BE NO PATIENCE FOR THE NORMAL SHENANIGANS!
Smigell
Wednesday, March 02, 2005
Tuesday, March 01, 2005
Monday, February 28, 2005
BIG TIME IMPORTANT!!! PLEASE READ!!!
#1: You can now post questions or comments on the blog!! I have realizede that I actually check the forums of Stimson's Ghetto more than I check my personal E-mail account, so I thought that this might be a another way to reach me. This also allows people to express ideas and other thoughts... Give it a shot!
#2 The itinerary for FESTIVAL is complete!
Wind Ensemble:
Performance Date: Friday, March 4, 2005
Location: Waterford Kettering HS (I know there have been many rumors and wrong announcements about this, but this is final. I got a letter from them today... This is the place)
Report time: 6:30PM Howell High School Busses leave approx. 7:00 pm conflicts need to see Mr. Smigell Immediately!!!
Performance time: 8:55PM
Return time: Approx. 11PM
9th grade/Varsity band:
Performance Date: Saturday, March 4, 2005
Location: South Lyon HS
Report time: 6:55 am at Howell HS Busses leave approx 7:15am. Conflicts need to see Mr Smigell immediately!
Performance time: 8:55 am
Return Time: Approx 10:30 AM
Symphonic Band:
Performance Date: Saturday, March 4, 2005
Location: South Lyon HS
Report time: 10:30 AM Howell High School Conflicts need to see mr. Smigell immediately!
Performance time: 1:00 PM
return time: 2:30- 3:30 PM
ALSO: The Detroit Symphony Orchestra is playing PICTURES AT AN EXHIBITION by Mossourgski on March 13th, 2005. This is an incredible opportunity to see some really well known classical music by a fantastic orchestra. Even if you have never heard of the piece, you will recognize much of the music. It is used in film and TV all the time.
Peace out,
Smigell
#1: You can now post questions or comments on the blog!! I have realizede that I actually check the forums of Stimson's Ghetto more than I check my personal E-mail account, so I thought that this might be a another way to reach me. This also allows people to express ideas and other thoughts... Give it a shot!
#2 The itinerary for FESTIVAL is complete!
Wind Ensemble:
Performance Date: Friday, March 4, 2005
Location: Waterford Kettering HS (I know there have been many rumors and wrong announcements about this, but this is final. I got a letter from them today... This is the place)
Report time: 6:30PM Howell High School Busses leave approx. 7:00 pm conflicts need to see Mr. Smigell Immediately!!!
Performance time: 8:55PM
Return time: Approx. 11PM
9th grade/Varsity band:
Performance Date: Saturday, March 4, 2005
Location: South Lyon HS
Report time: 6:55 am at Howell HS Busses leave approx 7:15am. Conflicts need to see Mr Smigell immediately!
Performance time: 8:55 am
Return Time: Approx 10:30 AM
Symphonic Band:
Performance Date: Saturday, March 4, 2005
Location: South Lyon HS
Report time: 10:30 AM Howell High School Conflicts need to see mr. Smigell immediately!
Performance time: 1:00 PM
return time: 2:30- 3:30 PM
ALSO: The Detroit Symphony Orchestra is playing PICTURES AT AN EXHIBITION by Mossourgski on March 13th, 2005. This is an incredible opportunity to see some really well known classical music by a fantastic orchestra. Even if you have never heard of the piece, you will recognize much of the music. It is used in film and TV all the time.
Peace out,
Smigell
Friday, February 25, 2005
LET THERE BE PEACE ON THE NET!!!
Ok folks, for those of you who are regular visitors, this is an opinion entry, not an informational one. It is related to what is becoming a nasty little war on some of my student's blogs.
I must admit that I got sucked in and read it along with everyone else. It was the same part of me that turns to look at gruesome car wrecks on the highway and contribute to the gawker jams that result.
Listen people, there are some pretty hurtful things that are being traded back and forth, and although it was initially amusing, no good can come from further exchanges:
1. We are about to draw heat from the local press... I could just see this ballooning into something stupid that gets put on the local news. You know those tv people love to air crap like this!!! Just look back to the diversity flag fiasco and the KKK robe scandal. None of that was that big of a deal, but people love to look at other people's dirty laundry. I can just see it now: HOWELL CONTINUES TO DEMONSTRATE HATE.... THIS TIME IN CYBERSPACE. Is this what is really happening? No, but they don't care.
2. The band program is loosley connected to this whole thing because the warring factions are in band.
3. It is going to start interferring with class... not to mention people relations.
Mike, if you read this, I respect your right to free speech, but you need to be careful. With that freedom comes responsibility. Lawsuits have been started over less. If you really wanted it to be private, you would have used that option on the blog dashboard. I think you are a good person. You're better than this. You're probably surprised by aall the fuss. Settle your differences face to face and people will respect you more
Joe and anyone else that has been responding angrily: Just stop reading it. Haven't you figured out that he wants you to be mad and respond to him? As I said with Mike, you guys are better than this. I know I laughed at what was being written, but I realized quickly after that that was wrong. Nothing good is going to come from this.
THE BIG POINT TO GET HERE: It is very easy to say bad things on the internet because it is not face to face. I have made some pretty massive mistakes this way, so I speak from experience.
SOME TIPS TO KEEP FROM GETTING TOO MEAN ON THE NET:
1. Save your post as a draft, wait an hour or two then read it again before you post. You frequently will edit what you wrote, or delete it all together.
2. NEVER PUT ANYTHING UNTRUE ABOUT SOMEONE... Even if it is a joke, you are crossing over into defamation, which is illegal.
3. RESPONDING JUST MAKES EVERYONE MORE ANGRY AND ESCALATES THE CONFLICT.
You know that I don't usually get involved in students' private lives, but by posting all of this on the net, you have made it public. Everyone take a deep breath and be at peace.
Smigell
Ok folks, for those of you who are regular visitors, this is an opinion entry, not an informational one. It is related to what is becoming a nasty little war on some of my student's blogs.
I must admit that I got sucked in and read it along with everyone else. It was the same part of me that turns to look at gruesome car wrecks on the highway and contribute to the gawker jams that result.
Listen people, there are some pretty hurtful things that are being traded back and forth, and although it was initially amusing, no good can come from further exchanges:
1. We are about to draw heat from the local press... I could just see this ballooning into something stupid that gets put on the local news. You know those tv people love to air crap like this!!! Just look back to the diversity flag fiasco and the KKK robe scandal. None of that was that big of a deal, but people love to look at other people's dirty laundry. I can just see it now: HOWELL CONTINUES TO DEMONSTRATE HATE.... THIS TIME IN CYBERSPACE. Is this what is really happening? No, but they don't care.
2. The band program is loosley connected to this whole thing because the warring factions are in band.
3. It is going to start interferring with class... not to mention people relations.
Mike, if you read this, I respect your right to free speech, but you need to be careful. With that freedom comes responsibility. Lawsuits have been started over less. If you really wanted it to be private, you would have used that option on the blog dashboard. I think you are a good person. You're better than this. You're probably surprised by aall the fuss. Settle your differences face to face and people will respect you more
Joe and anyone else that has been responding angrily: Just stop reading it. Haven't you figured out that he wants you to be mad and respond to him? As I said with Mike, you guys are better than this. I know I laughed at what was being written, but I realized quickly after that that was wrong. Nothing good is going to come from this.
THE BIG POINT TO GET HERE: It is very easy to say bad things on the internet because it is not face to face. I have made some pretty massive mistakes this way, so I speak from experience.
SOME TIPS TO KEEP FROM GETTING TOO MEAN ON THE NET:
1. Save your post as a draft, wait an hour or two then read it again before you post. You frequently will edit what you wrote, or delete it all together.
2. NEVER PUT ANYTHING UNTRUE ABOUT SOMEONE... Even if it is a joke, you are crossing over into defamation, which is illegal.
3. RESPONDING JUST MAKES EVERYONE MORE ANGRY AND ESCALATES THE CONFLICT.
You know that I don't usually get involved in students' private lives, but by posting all of this on the net, you have made it public. Everyone take a deep breath and be at peace.
Smigell
Tuesday, February 22, 2005
FESTIVAL HOME STRETCH EDITION PART 1...
Hello Bloggers!
There is a correction from the last blog!
The location for the Wind ensemble for festival is waterford kettering!!! Where that is... your guess is as good as mine!!
Just a reminder that the pre-festival concert is THIS THURSDAY!!!!
-Start time is 7:00 pm report time all groups is 6:30 pm.
-Attire is standard band concert outfit (Black bottom and formal shirt with bowtie for the freshman ensemble, Same for gentlemen in the symph band, ladies of Symphonic Band wear thier prescribed skirts and the formal shirt with bowtie. The ladies of the Wind ensemble wear the same as the symphonic band and the gentlemen of the wind ensemble wear the super old beat up tuxes with white formal shirt and bowtie.
-ONLY THE FRESHMAN BAND, THE SYMPHONIC BAND, AND THE WIND ENSEMBLE PARTICIPATE IN THE PREFESTIVAL CONCERT!!
-This is our least populated concert of the year, so please make a point of coming out to see the show!! The kids will appreciate it!!
MORE ON SPECIFIC FESTIVAL TIMES AND ITINERARY COMING VERY SOON!!!
Hello Bloggers!
There is a correction from the last blog!
The location for the Wind ensemble for festival is waterford kettering!!! Where that is... your guess is as good as mine!!
Just a reminder that the pre-festival concert is THIS THURSDAY!!!!
-Start time is 7:00 pm report time all groups is 6:30 pm.
-Attire is standard band concert outfit (Black bottom and formal shirt with bowtie for the freshman ensemble, Same for gentlemen in the symph band, ladies of Symphonic Band wear thier prescribed skirts and the formal shirt with bowtie. The ladies of the Wind ensemble wear the same as the symphonic band and the gentlemen of the wind ensemble wear the super old beat up tuxes with white formal shirt and bowtie.
-ONLY THE FRESHMAN BAND, THE SYMPHONIC BAND, AND THE WIND ENSEMBLE PARTICIPATE IN THE PREFESTIVAL CONCERT!!
-This is our least populated concert of the year, so please make a point of coming out to see the show!! The kids will appreciate it!!
MORE ON SPECIFIC FESTIVAL TIMES AND ITINERARY COMING VERY SOON!!!
Monday, February 07, 2005
Festival Info edition of the band blog!
Greetings Bloggo-comrades!
This is all the information I currently have about the Band and orchestra festival, along with the information for State solo and ensemble festival.
BAND AND ORCHESTRA INFORMATION!!!
SITE: South Lyon High School
Wind Ensemble Performs March 4th, (friday night) at 8:50 PM
Symphonic Band Performs March 5th 1:00 PM
Ninth Grade Band Performs March 5th 8:50 AM
Please mark this on your calendars!
State Solo and Ensemble Festival is March 19th!!!
Presumed site will be Chelsea High School
If you received a "1" rating at districts, you are elligible to play at states. I must have the money by Wednesday, Feb 9 in order to send the forms in on time.
Here are the prices:
9th grade solo: $12.00
10-12 Grade solo: $16.00
Piano solo:$19.00
Perc solo: $19.00
Duet: $12.50
Trio: $14.00
Quartet:$15.50
Quintet: $17.00
Checks payable to HHS Band or cash only. NO STUDENT ACCOUNTS.
Also, don't forget about our Festival Prep Concert on Thursday, Feb 24th at 7pm in the HHS Auditorium.
And now, I'm outta here.
SMigell
Greetings Bloggo-comrades!
This is all the information I currently have about the Band and orchestra festival, along with the information for State solo and ensemble festival.
BAND AND ORCHESTRA INFORMATION!!!
SITE: South Lyon High School
Wind Ensemble Performs March 4th, (friday night) at 8:50 PM
Symphonic Band Performs March 5th 1:00 PM
Ninth Grade Band Performs March 5th 8:50 AM
Please mark this on your calendars!
State Solo and Ensemble Festival is March 19th!!!
Presumed site will be Chelsea High School
If you received a "1" rating at districts, you are elligible to play at states. I must have the money by Wednesday, Feb 9 in order to send the forms in on time.
Here are the prices:
9th grade solo: $12.00
10-12 Grade solo: $16.00
Piano solo:$19.00
Perc solo: $19.00
Duet: $12.50
Trio: $14.00
Quartet:$15.50
Quintet: $17.00
Checks payable to HHS Band or cash only. NO STUDENT ACCOUNTS.
Also, don't forget about our Festival Prep Concert on Thursday, Feb 24th at 7pm in the HHS Auditorium.
And now, I'm outta here.
SMigell
Monday, January 17, 2005
MLK Day Blog:
Greeting Band Folk throughout this great community of Howell. Let us first take a moment to think about what this day means. When I think of Martin Luther King Jr, I think of a man that helped to set great changes in motion. Great changes in tolerance, love, and equality for all people in the United States of America. I think that things are much better than they were in the struggle for civil rights, but I think we still have work to do. Recently our community has been the object of scrutiny again due to it's past transgressions and an act of what I consider to be poor taste. Once again, the misjudgement of a few has put the burden on all of us. If we want our town to be respected and judged as safe and fair, we need to continue to show tolerance, civility, and compassion to everyone we meet. I know I am preaching to the choir, it's just that I know Howell is a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. It frustrates me when people from outside the community judge us because of a few isolated incedents.
Anyway, here is the next few days outlined for the band program.
Bands: We will rehearse on Tuesday, and for a portion of the final exam. If you have successfully passed your audition (for band) or end of the semester playing exam (for percussion), then you may be exempt from coming to the final. Talk with Mr. Smigell for more details.
Perc:We will be finishing up Playing exams, then on the day of the final, we will hopefully be working on blue man group.
SOLO AND ENSEMBLE IS COMING UP FEB. 5... DO YOU HAVE YOUR MUSIC PICKED OUT YET?
NEXT CONCERT FOR THE BANDS IS ON FEB 24th. THERE WILL BE NO JAZZ BAND OR PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE AT THIS CONCERT.
BAND CAMP IS LOOKING TO BE THE WEEK OF AUGUST 8th... BUT DON't QUOTE ME!!! THERE WILL DETAILS ON THIS VERY SOON. EXPECT A SMALL PRICE HIKE (SORRY!!)
ok... that's it for now,
Mr. Smigell
Greeting Band Folk throughout this great community of Howell. Let us first take a moment to think about what this day means. When I think of Martin Luther King Jr, I think of a man that helped to set great changes in motion. Great changes in tolerance, love, and equality for all people in the United States of America. I think that things are much better than they were in the struggle for civil rights, but I think we still have work to do. Recently our community has been the object of scrutiny again due to it's past transgressions and an act of what I consider to be poor taste. Once again, the misjudgement of a few has put the burden on all of us. If we want our town to be respected and judged as safe and fair, we need to continue to show tolerance, civility, and compassion to everyone we meet. I know I am preaching to the choir, it's just that I know Howell is a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. It frustrates me when people from outside the community judge us because of a few isolated incedents.
Anyway, here is the next few days outlined for the band program.
Bands: We will rehearse on Tuesday, and for a portion of the final exam. If you have successfully passed your audition (for band) or end of the semester playing exam (for percussion), then you may be exempt from coming to the final. Talk with Mr. Smigell for more details.
Perc:We will be finishing up Playing exams, then on the day of the final, we will hopefully be working on blue man group.
SOLO AND ENSEMBLE IS COMING UP FEB. 5... DO YOU HAVE YOUR MUSIC PICKED OUT YET?
NEXT CONCERT FOR THE BANDS IS ON FEB 24th. THERE WILL BE NO JAZZ BAND OR PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE AT THIS CONCERT.
BAND CAMP IS LOOKING TO BE THE WEEK OF AUGUST 8th... BUT DON't QUOTE ME!!! THERE WILL DETAILS ON THIS VERY SOON. EXPECT A SMALL PRICE HIKE (SORRY!!)
ok... that's it for now,
Mr. Smigell
Friday, January 07, 2005
Welcome Bliggity Blogs!
This is a post in accordance with my new resolution to blog more often (I am determined to keep at least one of my new year's resolutions).
Here are some of the happenings in the Howell High School Band program right now:
-Jazz band will begin rehearsal as usual on monday, jan 10th for ALL members (Woodwinds included) from 2:45-4:45. All members will go from 2:45-3:45, then it will be just the big band for the last hour.
-The first rehearsal of the Livingston County honors band will also be on jan 10th, 2005 from 7-9pm. The second LCHB rehearsal will be from 8am-4 pm jan 29th at three fires middle school, and the last rehearsal will be all day jan 31st. The concert starts at 7:30 pm on Jan 31st.
-Solo and ensemble Festival is coming up! In fact, it is about a month away! Location tba, and times will be given out soon, but the festival itself happens on februrary 5th, 2005 (a Saturday)
well.... I think that is it for now.
Smigell
This is a post in accordance with my new resolution to blog more often (I am determined to keep at least one of my new year's resolutions).
Here are some of the happenings in the Howell High School Band program right now:
-Jazz band will begin rehearsal as usual on monday, jan 10th for ALL members (Woodwinds included) from 2:45-4:45. All members will go from 2:45-3:45, then it will be just the big band for the last hour.
-The first rehearsal of the Livingston County honors band will also be on jan 10th, 2005 from 7-9pm. The second LCHB rehearsal will be from 8am-4 pm jan 29th at three fires middle school, and the last rehearsal will be all day jan 31st. The concert starts at 7:30 pm on Jan 31st.
-Solo and ensemble Festival is coming up! In fact, it is about a month away! Location tba, and times will be given out soon, but the festival itself happens on februrary 5th, 2005 (a Saturday)
well.... I think that is it for now.
Smigell
Sunday, January 02, 2005
Happy New Year Blog!!!
Hey everyone, It's been a long time, so tell everyone who craves the blog to check it!!!
Let's get the business out of the way first!!
Schedule for the next few days....
Monday:
-Start of new technical exercises for all bands! Perc ensemble will have a new test piece for thier final exam.
-Bands will warm up with the tech exercises, a touch of chorales perhaps, then there will be time to practice audition pieces for the rest of the hour. Wind ensemble will have a bit of sightreading today instead, then have a practice day on tuesday.
perc ensemble will have the new test piece distributed to them on monday for the final exam. The planning will also begin for the green man group action
THERE WILL BE NO JAZZ BAND ON MONDAY!!!
Tuesday:
Freshman and Symphonic band: Auditions begin!
W.E. Practice day for auds
Perc: Major planning session for green man group
Wednesday:
Auds All bands
Perc begin testing for volunteers.
A couple of my new year's resolutions for the band program:
-I will practice at least 3 hours a week on my instrument or on score study
-I will have better and more worthwhile technical exercises for my groups to help prepare them for festival
-I willl do 2 hours of paper work a week whether I need to or not
-I will post on the blog twice a week whether I need to or not
Coming up in the next blog: Mitch Ryder and Spyder Turner!!! WOWWWWWOOWOWOWWOWWOW... WOW!!!
Hey everyone, It's been a long time, so tell everyone who craves the blog to check it!!!
Let's get the business out of the way first!!
Schedule for the next few days....
Monday:
-Start of new technical exercises for all bands! Perc ensemble will have a new test piece for thier final exam.
-Bands will warm up with the tech exercises, a touch of chorales perhaps, then there will be time to practice audition pieces for the rest of the hour. Wind ensemble will have a bit of sightreading today instead, then have a practice day on tuesday.
perc ensemble will have the new test piece distributed to them on monday for the final exam. The planning will also begin for the green man group action
THERE WILL BE NO JAZZ BAND ON MONDAY!!!
Tuesday:
Freshman and Symphonic band: Auditions begin!
W.E. Practice day for auds
Perc: Major planning session for green man group
Wednesday:
Auds All bands
Perc begin testing for volunteers.
A couple of my new year's resolutions for the band program:
-I will practice at least 3 hours a week on my instrument or on score study
-I will have better and more worthwhile technical exercises for my groups to help prepare them for festival
-I willl do 2 hours of paper work a week whether I need to or not
-I will post on the blog twice a week whether I need to or not
Coming up in the next blog: Mitch Ryder and Spyder Turner!!! WOWWWWWOOWOWOWWOWWOW... WOW!!!
Friday, November 26, 2004
FANTASY OF LIGHTS EDITION!
Hello all! Very sorry for not getting this up sooner!
Report time for kids is 5 pm NO EARLIER!
we will get into our uniforms and get on the bus....
The stepoff is at 7 pm.... we should be done around 8:30.... the bus will have us back at the high school around 9:00 or 9:30
We will stay on the bus as long as possible while waiting, but the kids will be out in the cold for a while. long underwear, spandex, and turtlenecks are suggested underneather the uniform. PLEASE DON'T WEAR SWEATSHIRTS OR JEANS UNDERNEAATH THE UNIFORMS, AS IT WILL CAUSE THE UNIFORMS TO TEAR!!!
Good luck and see you there!!!!
Smigell
Hello all! Very sorry for not getting this up sooner!
Report time for kids is 5 pm NO EARLIER!
we will get into our uniforms and get on the bus....
The stepoff is at 7 pm.... we should be done around 8:30.... the bus will have us back at the high school around 9:00 or 9:30
We will stay on the bus as long as possible while waiting, but the kids will be out in the cold for a while. long underwear, spandex, and turtlenecks are suggested underneather the uniform. PLEASE DON'T WEAR SWEATSHIRTS OR JEANS UNDERNEAATH THE UNIFORMS, AS IT WILL CAUSE THE UNIFORMS TO TEAR!!!
Good luck and see you there!!!!
Smigell
Thursday, November 11, 2004
SOLO AND ENSEMBLE EDITION!
Hello all! I have some information for you about this year's solo and ensemble festival:
-Solo and ensemble is an event where students get to play music by themselves or in small groups to be rated for a judge. It is very beneficial for their musical development and I highly suggest students to "take the plunge".
-The S&E festival is held all day on saturday, feb 5, 2005 at lake orion high school
-The cost to participate is $8.00 for a solo, $7.00 per person for an ensemble. The money is non refundable and is due NEXT MONDAY, NOVEMBER 15th, 2004.
-You do not need to know which piece of music you are playing yet, but I would suggest you know before the holiday vacation so you have a full 2 months to prepare.
-Any other questions, please call the band office at 517 540-8001 or email me at smigellj@howellschools.com
Cheers!
Smigell
Hello all! I have some information for you about this year's solo and ensemble festival:
-Solo and ensemble is an event where students get to play music by themselves or in small groups to be rated for a judge. It is very beneficial for their musical development and I highly suggest students to "take the plunge".
-The S&E festival is held all day on saturday, feb 5, 2005 at lake orion high school
-The cost to participate is $8.00 for a solo, $7.00 per person for an ensemble. The money is non refundable and is due NEXT MONDAY, NOVEMBER 15th, 2004.
-You do not need to know which piece of music you are playing yet, but I would suggest you know before the holiday vacation so you have a full 2 months to prepare.
-Any other questions, please call the band office at 517 540-8001 or email me at smigellj@howellschools.com
Cheers!
Smigell
Thursday, November 04, 2004
A message from the sickbed
Hello everybody,
I have been out for a long time and I thought some of you might want to know what has been going on.
At first I just had a bad cold and a throat infection. The bacteria moved into my ear late tuesday and now I have an inner ear infection. It affects my balance and makes me very sick to my stomach. On top of that, loud noises seem to make it worse, thus making teaching band a little out of the questions. I was telling Mr. Shouldice that I have not been this bored, sick and by myself in about 6 years! The antibiotics seem to be working, but they are working slowly. Friday will be my last day out of school, I promise!!
When I get back, we are going to start jazz band auditions, re-vamping and updating the tech lab, getting ready for the veteran's dya assembly and sight reading for the holiday concert and for festival.
I will still be answering my email (smigellj@howellschools.com) if you need to get ahold of me.
Cheers,
Mr. Smigell
Hello everybody,
I have been out for a long time and I thought some of you might want to know what has been going on.
At first I just had a bad cold and a throat infection. The bacteria moved into my ear late tuesday and now I have an inner ear infection. It affects my balance and makes me very sick to my stomach. On top of that, loud noises seem to make it worse, thus making teaching band a little out of the questions. I was telling Mr. Shouldice that I have not been this bored, sick and by myself in about 6 years! The antibiotics seem to be working, but they are working slowly. Friday will be my last day out of school, I promise!!
When I get back, we are going to start jazz band auditions, re-vamping and updating the tech lab, getting ready for the veteran's dya assembly and sight reading for the holiday concert and for festival.
I will still be answering my email (smigellj@howellschools.com) if you need to get ahold of me.
Cheers,
Mr. Smigell
Monday, October 25, 2004
BAND CONCERT EDITION OF THE BLOG!! ALSO INFORMATION ABOUT THE PLAYOFF GAME!!
Hello Blog readers!
Tonight there is a concert! Ninth grade band, Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, and Percussion class are required to perform tonight. Marching band is not performing tonight.
Report time is 6:30pm for percussion, 9th grade, and Symphonic band. Report time for Wind ensemble is 6:45pm. Dress for the concert is semi formal (no tshirts, sweatshirts, jeans, or tennis shoes). The concert should be a short one, but full of nifty and interesting pieces.
The two days after the concert will be "picture days". During the school day, we will be taking individual photos for composite picture. Students have the option of having their picture in their band uniform or concert attire (formal shirt and pants/skirt). If students want to take the picture in their concert attire, they need to bring it from home (except in the case of the ninth graders. We have extras that they can use just for the picture). Color guard should come in during 2nd or third hour to get their pictures taken.
We have information for the PLAYOFF GAME!!!
We will be traveling to Ann Arbor Pioneer to play them on friday at 7pm. The band will be playing in a pep band format. Dress will be the band tshirt (Wear more underneath for warmth and the band raincoat (we will distribute on the day of the game). Transportation is not provided due to budget cuts. Maps will be provided later in the week.
That's all for now!!
Smigell
Hello Blog readers!
Tonight there is a concert! Ninth grade band, Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, and Percussion class are required to perform tonight. Marching band is not performing tonight.
Report time is 6:30pm for percussion, 9th grade, and Symphonic band. Report time for Wind ensemble is 6:45pm. Dress for the concert is semi formal (no tshirts, sweatshirts, jeans, or tennis shoes). The concert should be a short one, but full of nifty and interesting pieces.
The two days after the concert will be "picture days". During the school day, we will be taking individual photos for composite picture. Students have the option of having their picture in their band uniform or concert attire (formal shirt and pants/skirt). If students want to take the picture in their concert attire, they need to bring it from home (except in the case of the ninth graders. We have extras that they can use just for the picture). Color guard should come in during 2nd or third hour to get their pictures taken.
We have information for the PLAYOFF GAME!!!
We will be traveling to Ann Arbor Pioneer to play them on friday at 7pm. The band will be playing in a pep band format. Dress will be the band tshirt (Wear more underneath for warmth and the band raincoat (we will distribute on the day of the game). Transportation is not provided due to budget cuts. Maps will be provided later in the week.
That's all for now!!
Smigell
Thursday, October 21, 2004
FINAL MARCHING FALL MARCHING BAND EDITION OF THE BAND BLOG
Here is all of the information that you have been waiting for! If you are reading this, pass it along that the blog is up with a new entry to everyone you know that reads it.
Tomorrow, Friday, Oct. 22, 2004
Final regular season home game of the year.
report time is 5:30
Senior parents are asked to be at the track at 6:30 pm
the tailgate will begin at 4:30 pm
The drawing for the "win a band performance" raffle will be held friday night at halftime
THERE IS A CONCERT MONDAY NIGHT. THE MARCHING BAND IS NOT PERFORMING AT IT. The symphonic band, the varsity band, the wind ensemble, and the percussion ensemble will be performing. The concert starts at 7pm and the dress is "something nice", meaning no jeans, tshirts, tennis shoes, or sweatshirts.
see you tomorrow night!
Smigell
Here is all of the information that you have been waiting for! If you are reading this, pass it along that the blog is up with a new entry to everyone you know that reads it.
Tomorrow, Friday, Oct. 22, 2004
Final regular season home game of the year.
report time is 5:30
Senior parents are asked to be at the track at 6:30 pm
the tailgate will begin at 4:30 pm
The drawing for the "win a band performance" raffle will be held friday night at halftime
THERE IS A CONCERT MONDAY NIGHT. THE MARCHING BAND IS NOT PERFORMING AT IT. The symphonic band, the varsity band, the wind ensemble, and the percussion ensemble will be performing. The concert starts at 7pm and the dress is "something nice", meaning no jeans, tshirts, tennis shoes, or sweatshirts.
see you tomorrow night!
Smigell
Wednesday, October 06, 2004
POST FESTIVAL BLOG...
Hello everyone! Well, The Howell Highlander Marching Band attended MSBOA distict IV marching festival yesterday night. The staff and I were very pleased with the results. We received a division II rating (The best being a I, the worst being a V), and qualified for our first medal in over twenty years. The kids performed their very best, and also recieved compliments for being polite and classy. This has been a fantastic maiden voyage for the marching band and we look forward to improving next year. Special thanks to Sherry Dingman, Pat Keeney, Shannon Dingman, Robin Keeney, Sue Baker, Vicky Kihn, and anyone else I forgot for either chaperoning or helping out at the festival (I know I forgot someone... Really sorry!)
SO.... WHAT'S NEXT?!?!?
Great question! Here are some of the things happening over the next few weeks:
NO SCHOOL OR PRACTICE ON THURSDAY OCT. 7
-HOME FOOTBALL GAME THIS FRIDAY vs. South lyon. The eighth graders will be joining us on the field for our annual recruiting performance. Report time for High Schoolers is 5:30pm Report time is 5:45 for 8th graders. Eighth graders, High Schoolers and all parents are invited to partake in tasty food and soft drinks at the booster tailgate outside the band room at approx. 4:30ish.
MONDAY OCT. 11 tryouts for the University of Michigan Hockey Pep Band gig! We will be taking 45 members of the Howell High School band to sub for the U of M hockey pep band on oct. 16 (saturday). Any instrument playing member of the band program may try out for this group. Music will be passed out on Friday for auditions. See entry for oct 16th below for morer details. MB PRACTICE IS ON MONDAY FROM 5-7pm
TUESDAY, OCT 12, WEDNESDAY, OCT 13 and THURSDAY, OCT 14 MANDATORY HOCKEY BAND REHEARSALS FROM 3:30-4:30 If made it into hockey band, you MUST attend 2 of the 3 rehearsals for hockey band. You may only miss if you have an excuse. We have a lot of music to go over, so be ready!
FRIDAY, OCT 15th PEP BAND AT HARTLAND! Transportation is NOT provided, but all members of HHS bands are welcome to join us.
SATURDAY, OCT 16 HOCKEY BAND
The hockey band currently has a report time of 4:30PM at Howell High School. This may change slightly as we get more information. A U of M charter bus will pick us up, take us down to Ann Arbor Michigan. The students will receive a free shirt, hot dog, and drink (You may want to send them with a little cash to supplement). The game will take until 9:30pm. So plan on a return around 11:30PM. Because I am bringing along a school administrator, no chaperones are needed. However, Everyone is invited to join us at the game! Tickets for the game (versus St. Lawrence) are available on the net. Click on www.mgoblue.com for ticket info.
That's it for next week. Couple of other things:
The performance for the UM basketball team is indefinitely on hold. Not enough interest was shown (mostly because it will be on dec 29 and many people are out of town), so we had to pass.
FALL SHOWCASE CONCERT will be on Monday, Oct 25. More information is on the way. Dress will be "nice clothes" (dress casual) for the first concert, and uniform shirts for the remaining concerts. Thus, NEW PARENTS, YOUR CHILD DOES NOT NEED ANY SPECIAL UNIFORM CLOTHING YET... No sweat.
FINAL HOME GAME will be Oct 22. This is also senior night. Anyone interested in helping prepare this special night for our 4 year members please email me at smigellj@howellschools.com.
Ok.... TTFN!
Hello everyone! Well, The Howell Highlander Marching Band attended MSBOA distict IV marching festival yesterday night. The staff and I were very pleased with the results. We received a division II rating (The best being a I, the worst being a V), and qualified for our first medal in over twenty years. The kids performed their very best, and also recieved compliments for being polite and classy. This has been a fantastic maiden voyage for the marching band and we look forward to improving next year. Special thanks to Sherry Dingman, Pat Keeney, Shannon Dingman, Robin Keeney, Sue Baker, Vicky Kihn, and anyone else I forgot for either chaperoning or helping out at the festival (I know I forgot someone... Really sorry!)
SO.... WHAT'S NEXT?!?!?
Great question! Here are some of the things happening over the next few weeks:
NO SCHOOL OR PRACTICE ON THURSDAY OCT. 7
-HOME FOOTBALL GAME THIS FRIDAY vs. South lyon. The eighth graders will be joining us on the field for our annual recruiting performance. Report time for High Schoolers is 5:30pm Report time is 5:45 for 8th graders. Eighth graders, High Schoolers and all parents are invited to partake in tasty food and soft drinks at the booster tailgate outside the band room at approx. 4:30ish.
MONDAY OCT. 11 tryouts for the University of Michigan Hockey Pep Band gig! We will be taking 45 members of the Howell High School band to sub for the U of M hockey pep band on oct. 16 (saturday). Any instrument playing member of the band program may try out for this group. Music will be passed out on Friday for auditions. See entry for oct 16th below for morer details. MB PRACTICE IS ON MONDAY FROM 5-7pm
TUESDAY, OCT 12, WEDNESDAY, OCT 13 and THURSDAY, OCT 14 MANDATORY HOCKEY BAND REHEARSALS FROM 3:30-4:30 If made it into hockey band, you MUST attend 2 of the 3 rehearsals for hockey band. You may only miss if you have an excuse. We have a lot of music to go over, so be ready!
FRIDAY, OCT 15th PEP BAND AT HARTLAND! Transportation is NOT provided, but all members of HHS bands are welcome to join us.
SATURDAY, OCT 16 HOCKEY BAND
The hockey band currently has a report time of 4:30PM at Howell High School. This may change slightly as we get more information. A U of M charter bus will pick us up, take us down to Ann Arbor Michigan. The students will receive a free shirt, hot dog, and drink (You may want to send them with a little cash to supplement). The game will take until 9:30pm. So plan on a return around 11:30PM. Because I am bringing along a school administrator, no chaperones are needed. However, Everyone is invited to join us at the game! Tickets for the game (versus St. Lawrence) are available on the net. Click on www.mgoblue.com for ticket info.
That's it for next week. Couple of other things:
The performance for the UM basketball team is indefinitely on hold. Not enough interest was shown (mostly because it will be on dec 29 and many people are out of town), so we had to pass.
FALL SHOWCASE CONCERT will be on Monday, Oct 25. More information is on the way. Dress will be "nice clothes" (dress casual) for the first concert, and uniform shirts for the remaining concerts. Thus, NEW PARENTS, YOUR CHILD DOES NOT NEED ANY SPECIAL UNIFORM CLOTHING YET... No sweat.
FINAL HOME GAME will be Oct 22. This is also senior night. Anyone interested in helping prepare this special night for our 4 year members please email me at smigellj@howellschools.com.
Ok.... TTFN!
Tuesday, September 28, 2004
A Tree, A log, I think I'll Write a BLOG...
Hello everyone!! Here is the latest band news:
PERFORMANCE TIME FOR MARCHING BAND FESTIVAL:
Our performance time at Walled Lake Western High School is 7:15 PM on Tuesday, Oct 5th. Our bus will depart at 5:30pm from the high school. Thus, we need to load our busses at around 5pm. Everyone under the sun is invited to come see us!
Basketball Band invitation: We have been invited, along with our hockey band engagement (Oct 16th) to play for the UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN BASKETBALL team during their game versus Delaware State. Here's the problem... THE GAME IS ON DECEMBER 29th! How many people would be able to make it? We need to let the folks at the marching band know by this thursday...
Pep band is at Brighton this week... Every child is welcome, and parents too! (If they pay)
ok.... that's all the news that's fit to print!
Smigell
Hello everyone!! Here is the latest band news:
PERFORMANCE TIME FOR MARCHING BAND FESTIVAL:
Our performance time at Walled Lake Western High School is 7:15 PM on Tuesday, Oct 5th. Our bus will depart at 5:30pm from the high school. Thus, we need to load our busses at around 5pm. Everyone under the sun is invited to come see us!
Basketball Band invitation: We have been invited, along with our hockey band engagement (Oct 16th) to play for the UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN BASKETBALL team during their game versus Delaware State. Here's the problem... THE GAME IS ON DECEMBER 29th! How many people would be able to make it? We need to let the folks at the marching band know by this thursday...
Pep band is at Brighton this week... Every child is welcome, and parents too! (If they pay)
ok.... that's all the news that's fit to print!
Smigell
Thursday, September 23, 2004
Band BLOG... Stardate 9/23/04. We have sighted a strange object up ahead... We think it may be HOMECOMING!
Band Blog Homecoming Edition:
-Friday is homecoming. Basically, it means that if you are in marching band, you will get up, go to school and come home at 10:30pm. You should bring your black socks, band shirt, and anything else you need with you to school in the morning.
Here is the schedule:
12:40pm Marching Band is dismissed for pep rally. The pep band goes until the end of the school day.
2:30 pm Band goes to the field to have a homecoming dress rehearsal and field show run through
4:00 band gets a 1/2 hour dinner break
4:30 Jump into the uniforms!
5:00 Line up for the parade by the bus drop off area (the parade is on campus this year)
5:30 Homecoming parade!
6:00 arrive in the stadium and chill out.
6:30ish- pre game
7:00 Kick off and BEAT LAKELAND!!
ALUMNI: You are most welcome to join us in the stands! If we have enough people show up for the parade, you can even march with us. We will be playing "Howell High Forever", so you should be fine for the parade. Depending on the amount of people showing up, we might even put you on the field. This is the first year where there has been serious interest to have people come back, so we will have to play it by ear. We will be playing "A Whole New World" on the field. We will have extra copies for those who want to be really brave. If everyone is flexible, we should be just fine and have a great time!
That is it for now. Sorry about the distance between blogs. They should be shorter in the future.
Band Blog Homecoming Edition:
-Friday is homecoming. Basically, it means that if you are in marching band, you will get up, go to school and come home at 10:30pm. You should bring your black socks, band shirt, and anything else you need with you to school in the morning.
Here is the schedule:
12:40pm Marching Band is dismissed for pep rally. The pep band goes until the end of the school day.
2:30 pm Band goes to the field to have a homecoming dress rehearsal and field show run through
4:00 band gets a 1/2 hour dinner break
4:30 Jump into the uniforms!
5:00 Line up for the parade by the bus drop off area (the parade is on campus this year)
5:30 Homecoming parade!
6:00 arrive in the stadium and chill out.
6:30ish- pre game
7:00 Kick off and BEAT LAKELAND!!
ALUMNI: You are most welcome to join us in the stands! If we have enough people show up for the parade, you can even march with us. We will be playing "Howell High Forever", so you should be fine for the parade. Depending on the amount of people showing up, we might even put you on the field. This is the first year where there has been serious interest to have people come back, so we will have to play it by ear. We will be playing "A Whole New World" on the field. We will have extra copies for those who want to be really brave. If everyone is flexible, we should be just fine and have a great time!
That is it for now. Sorry about the distance between blogs. They should be shorter in the future.
Thursday, September 09, 2004
Greetings all blog-ites!
Here is the latest and greatest news from the band:
Right now we are auditioning in all of the bands. Auditions will conclude either Monday or Tuesday of next week. Results will either be posted Tuesday or Wednesday.
Percussion class will probably conclude their performance testing on Tuesday or Wednesday.
THERE IS NO MARCHING BAND PRACTICE TOMORROW 9/10/04!!!
HOWEVER, THERE IS THE FIRST ROAD PEP BAND GIG OF THE YEAR!!
Howell Vs. Novi (A House Divided)
That's right! Every band member is invited (even non marching band members) to travel to Novi, MI to support our intrepid Highlanders as they clash with the always pesky Novi Wildcats. Unfortunately due to budget constraints, there will be no transportation provided. There are many parents and kids carpooling, however. Admission to the game is free if you are with the pep band. Maps are available in the band room.
REPORT TIME TOA GET IN FREE AT NOVI IS 6:30PM AT THE MAIN TICKET GATE AT THE NOVI HIGH SCHOOL STADIUM
I will be present at Howell High School until about 5PM if you want to pick up instruments.
THIS ACTIVITY IS OPTIONAL, BUT HIGHLY RECCOMENDED BECAUSE OF THE IMMENSE FUN!!!
Practice schedule for next week:
MONDAY 9/13/04 Practice at the stadium field 5-7pm
TUESDAY,WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY Practice will be at the STADIUM FIELD from 2:30 until 3:20PM
Ok... That's about it!
Go HIGHLANDERS!
Here is the latest and greatest news from the band:
Right now we are auditioning in all of the bands. Auditions will conclude either Monday or Tuesday of next week. Results will either be posted Tuesday or Wednesday.
Percussion class will probably conclude their performance testing on Tuesday or Wednesday.
THERE IS NO MARCHING BAND PRACTICE TOMORROW 9/10/04!!!
HOWEVER, THERE IS THE FIRST ROAD PEP BAND GIG OF THE YEAR!!
Howell Vs. Novi (A House Divided)
That's right! Every band member is invited (even non marching band members) to travel to Novi, MI to support our intrepid Highlanders as they clash with the always pesky Novi Wildcats. Unfortunately due to budget constraints, there will be no transportation provided. There are many parents and kids carpooling, however. Admission to the game is free if you are with the pep band. Maps are available in the band room.
REPORT TIME TOA GET IN FREE AT NOVI IS 6:30PM AT THE MAIN TICKET GATE AT THE NOVI HIGH SCHOOL STADIUM
I will be present at Howell High School until about 5PM if you want to pick up instruments.
THIS ACTIVITY IS OPTIONAL, BUT HIGHLY RECCOMENDED BECAUSE OF THE IMMENSE FUN!!!
Practice schedule for next week:
MONDAY 9/13/04 Practice at the stadium field 5-7pm
TUESDAY,WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY Practice will be at the STADIUM FIELD from 2:30 until 3:20PM
Ok... That's about it!
Go HIGHLANDERS!
Friday, September 03, 2004
CAN'T GO TO BED... GUESS I'LL BLOG!!
The crazy thing about this season is that it is one third over, and we have only been "back to school" for 3 days!!!! Since I have been blessed/cursed with insomnia this night, I suppose I will embark upon a state of the band blog:
Game overview:
Hello all. I returned from our 21-7 thrashing of Milford a few hours ago. Playoffs are cold but involved audiences are hot!!!! I will always take a win over a loss! The football team is looking inspired and so is the band. I was very pleased with the band's perfirmance. Both in the stands and on the field. The new location of the band closer to the student section has it's ups and downs. One of the big ups is that the students can interact with the members of the band for cheers.... it was very successful in the latter half of the game when the action was hot. The downside is that about 5,000,000 people try to get through on the ground level and complicate things greatly. All in all I think we will try to stay there and make it work. Mr. Paige, our athletic director said that he will assist in diverting civilian traffic to other stairs so that we get less interferrence.
Thanks to Mr. Buckner, Mrs. Shaine (sp?) and all the other folks that helped our passing out the water
Thanks to Sue Baker for being Sue Baker (keep working on the flute chops Sue)
Thanks to the Hubbels and ther Clarks in particular for a wonderful tailgate!
Thanks to Sue Hemond and Joe Provenzano for stalwartly undertaking a new and exciting fundraiser (auctioning/raffling the band). I know this will be a success.
Anyone who taped the show, I would appreciate sending the tape with their child on Tuesday. It would be a great help for the kids to see the show from above so we can correct our mistakes.
Thanks to Jeff stimson for writing KILLER drill and being the angel AND devil on my shoulder.
Thanks to Jim Shouldice for being the exemplary assistant director. A classier, more steady minded, more comepetant, mature, fantastic musician would be very difficult to find. "The Shouldice" is very welcome in Howell.
We have been taking the flags for granted this year because there is NO DRAMA and they ROCK. That is largely because of their fearless instructor, Allison Hardin. She brings home the bacon, fries it up in a pan, writes awesome routines, and puts up with the 3 directors' flatulent humor. She does the impossible and makes it look easy.
Thanks to Brian Riorden, a fantastic spanish teacher and the now OFFICIAL ANNOUNCER for the HHSMB. I never thought that I would have a Carl Grapentine (those of you close to the Michigan Marching Band will know what I mean), but it appears that I do....
Matt Sabin... Crusty but incredible... Keep making the drumline fantastic.
There are literally a hundred other people I should thank, but have forgotten. Please do not be offended. Simply know that children have benefited from your help; that you have touched a young person's life and made it better. If you are one of those young people and have helped me thus far.... either as a minion or outof the goodness of your heart, You are learning an extremely valuable lesson. The lesson is: True happiness comes from serving other people. True satisfaction comes from doing your job well and helping other people. True leadership comes from putting the needs of those you are in charge of over your own.
Marching Band will now settle down into a rhythm. We have weathered an incredible storm. We have performed three times by September 3rd. Our next obstacle shall be homecoming and the looming of marching festival. This is the first time that Howell will be going to marching festival in recent memory. We are hungry for success, and I think we will find it.
THE SCHEDULE FOR THE NEXT FEW DAYS!!!
Monday, Labor Day: NO practice
Tuesday, 9/7/04 Rehearsal 2:30-3:00 in the band room. Everbody except pipers should be there
Wed, Thurs, and Friday rehearsal AT THE STADIUM from 2:30- 3:30 pm
FRIDAY is our first away game against Novi!!! This is completely optional, but it is a lot of fun. Because of budget constraints, there is no transportation provided by the district. Carpools need to be organized for this trip to Novi High School next friday evening. Admission is free, and the fun will be plentiful!!
Next week starting Wednesday, 9/8/04, audtitions will begin for the Varsity Band, Symphonic Band, and the Wind Ensemble. These auditions will be for a grade, and they will determine chair postitions until the holiday break. Audtion materials have been available since Wednesday, Sept 1, 2004.
The next home game is 9/24/04 This is HOMECOMING!!! If you are an Alum, Email me and let me know that you coming!! I would like to have a full alumni band to join us at the game!!
My Impressions of the classes so far:
The ninth graders are a breath of fresh air!!! I have started calling them the "Little Giants" Because they have so much potential!! I honestly believe that some of the kids could easily make it into wind ensemble right now, but lack the social maturity to pull it off. Who knows where the jumbo shrimp can go this year? I look forward to pushing, molding, and shaping this group of unique and wonderful youngsters.
The symphonic band is ready to roar!! I simply need to get this fantastic group of talented young people to realized how special they are (get these great young people to stop screwing around and perform to the top of their ability level, which is quite high when they are focused). If we can tame these wild horses...we could have a breakout year for this previously malinged unit within the Howell High School Instumental Music Program. We could make everybody forget that this is the middle ensmeble within the program. We could actually bring some hardware home from festival. I know you can do it!
The Wind Ensemble's future is unclear.... Last year we a had a handful of standouts who pulled the band along. I believe that the overall talent level is higher in the group this year than last year, but it is more spread out and the group is much younger. This group could be the greatest thing that Howell has seen in 15 years or the greatest dissapointment in the last 4. I am sounding ominous on purpose... This is a challenge to the members of this group!! I would much rather have hard workers than talented people any day of the week. WE COULD MAKE SUCH INCREDIBLE MUSIC THIS YEAR!!!! This is an invatation to those who are wavering in committment. Let us raise the bar and really make our ensemble shine!!! It could be so easy and spectacular if everybody helps to share the load. Our greatest challenge is complacancy... We need to work harder than last year to achieve similar results. However, if we do work harder, I sincerely feel that we can VASTLY SURPASS the musical and technical standards set by our talented predecessors!
We have begun brainstorming in percussion class! This group is smaller (by design) and no longer is burdened with wind band duty. Thus we are able to focus all of our attention on incredible creative endeavors and bettering ourselves as well rounded percussionists. Expect big things out of this ensemble. I have changed the complexion of this class to allw the creative juices to flow, and for the wonder to begin!
Our new independant study-Music theory-Music and Technology Class has started with a BANG!! It really is an experiment and so far it is a success!for more information about this team taught class, email Jason Smigell at smigellj@howellschools.com
The Jazz Band will begin 2nd quarter! After last year, I think we might try taking the jazz band on the road again!!! This time to MSBOA Jazz festival. This Ensemble is open to ANYONE in the program... EVEN NINTH GRADER$!! In the past we have taken a modern lean on the repertiore selection of this group and I intend to continue the trend. For some reason, the HHSJB loves funk. I love funk.... Why mess with it? This is not to say that the HHSJB will not play swing or blues or latin... We will diversify... maybe even with a little gospel (my new infatuation). But the main focus shall be funk... for now.
I STILL AM TRYING TO DRUM UP ENTUSIASM FOR IRISH FOLK MUSIC!!! I will be talking to the kids about this in the near future...
THERE WILL BE A MUSICAL THIS YEAR.... but we don't know yet what it is.. I will let you know as soon as Ms. Pringle decides. Any way you slice it... There will be a pit band!!
OK... I think that that is it!!! Sometimes it takes a long time to get the blog out, but the following blog is enormous. It have not been this excited about the start of the year since my first year here (I mean it!!) The boundries truly are governed by the STUDENTS within the program.
Mr. Smigell
P.s. MINIONS... CHECK THE MINION'S BLOG!!!
The crazy thing about this season is that it is one third over, and we have only been "back to school" for 3 days!!!! Since I have been blessed/cursed with insomnia this night, I suppose I will embark upon a state of the band blog:
Game overview:
Hello all. I returned from our 21-7 thrashing of Milford a few hours ago. Playoffs are cold but involved audiences are hot!!!! I will always take a win over a loss! The football team is looking inspired and so is the band. I was very pleased with the band's perfirmance. Both in the stands and on the field. The new location of the band closer to the student section has it's ups and downs. One of the big ups is that the students can interact with the members of the band for cheers.... it was very successful in the latter half of the game when the action was hot. The downside is that about 5,000,000 people try to get through on the ground level and complicate things greatly. All in all I think we will try to stay there and make it work. Mr. Paige, our athletic director said that he will assist in diverting civilian traffic to other stairs so that we get less interferrence.
Thanks to Mr. Buckner, Mrs. Shaine (sp?) and all the other folks that helped our passing out the water
Thanks to Sue Baker for being Sue Baker (keep working on the flute chops Sue)
Thanks to the Hubbels and ther Clarks in particular for a wonderful tailgate!
Thanks to Sue Hemond and Joe Provenzano for stalwartly undertaking a new and exciting fundraiser (auctioning/raffling the band). I know this will be a success.
Anyone who taped the show, I would appreciate sending the tape with their child on Tuesday. It would be a great help for the kids to see the show from above so we can correct our mistakes.
Thanks to Jeff stimson for writing KILLER drill and being the angel AND devil on my shoulder.
Thanks to Jim Shouldice for being the exemplary assistant director. A classier, more steady minded, more comepetant, mature, fantastic musician would be very difficult to find. "The Shouldice" is very welcome in Howell.
We have been taking the flags for granted this year because there is NO DRAMA and they ROCK. That is largely because of their fearless instructor, Allison Hardin. She brings home the bacon, fries it up in a pan, writes awesome routines, and puts up with the 3 directors' flatulent humor. She does the impossible and makes it look easy.
Thanks to Brian Riorden, a fantastic spanish teacher and the now OFFICIAL ANNOUNCER for the HHSMB. I never thought that I would have a Carl Grapentine (those of you close to the Michigan Marching Band will know what I mean), but it appears that I do....
Matt Sabin... Crusty but incredible... Keep making the drumline fantastic.
There are literally a hundred other people I should thank, but have forgotten. Please do not be offended. Simply know that children have benefited from your help; that you have touched a young person's life and made it better. If you are one of those young people and have helped me thus far.... either as a minion or outof the goodness of your heart, You are learning an extremely valuable lesson. The lesson is: True happiness comes from serving other people. True satisfaction comes from doing your job well and helping other people. True leadership comes from putting the needs of those you are in charge of over your own.
Marching Band will now settle down into a rhythm. We have weathered an incredible storm. We have performed three times by September 3rd. Our next obstacle shall be homecoming and the looming of marching festival. This is the first time that Howell will be going to marching festival in recent memory. We are hungry for success, and I think we will find it.
THE SCHEDULE FOR THE NEXT FEW DAYS!!!
Monday, Labor Day: NO practice
Tuesday, 9/7/04 Rehearsal 2:30-3:00 in the band room. Everbody except pipers should be there
Wed, Thurs, and Friday rehearsal AT THE STADIUM from 2:30- 3:30 pm
FRIDAY is our first away game against Novi!!! This is completely optional, but it is a lot of fun. Because of budget constraints, there is no transportation provided by the district. Carpools need to be organized for this trip to Novi High School next friday evening. Admission is free, and the fun will be plentiful!!
Next week starting Wednesday, 9/8/04, audtitions will begin for the Varsity Band, Symphonic Band, and the Wind Ensemble. These auditions will be for a grade, and they will determine chair postitions until the holiday break. Audtion materials have been available since Wednesday, Sept 1, 2004.
The next home game is 9/24/04 This is HOMECOMING!!! If you are an Alum, Email me and let me know that you coming!! I would like to have a full alumni band to join us at the game!!
My Impressions of the classes so far:
The ninth graders are a breath of fresh air!!! I have started calling them the "Little Giants" Because they have so much potential!! I honestly believe that some of the kids could easily make it into wind ensemble right now, but lack the social maturity to pull it off. Who knows where the jumbo shrimp can go this year? I look forward to pushing, molding, and shaping this group of unique and wonderful youngsters.
The symphonic band is ready to roar!! I simply need to get this fantastic group of talented young people to realized how special they are (get these great young people to stop screwing around and perform to the top of their ability level, which is quite high when they are focused). If we can tame these wild horses...we could have a breakout year for this previously malinged unit within the Howell High School Instumental Music Program. We could make everybody forget that this is the middle ensmeble within the program. We could actually bring some hardware home from festival. I know you can do it!
The Wind Ensemble's future is unclear.... Last year we a had a handful of standouts who pulled the band along. I believe that the overall talent level is higher in the group this year than last year, but it is more spread out and the group is much younger. This group could be the greatest thing that Howell has seen in 15 years or the greatest dissapointment in the last 4. I am sounding ominous on purpose... This is a challenge to the members of this group!! I would much rather have hard workers than talented people any day of the week. WE COULD MAKE SUCH INCREDIBLE MUSIC THIS YEAR!!!! This is an invatation to those who are wavering in committment. Let us raise the bar and really make our ensemble shine!!! It could be so easy and spectacular if everybody helps to share the load. Our greatest challenge is complacancy... We need to work harder than last year to achieve similar results. However, if we do work harder, I sincerely feel that we can VASTLY SURPASS the musical and technical standards set by our talented predecessors!
We have begun brainstorming in percussion class! This group is smaller (by design) and no longer is burdened with wind band duty. Thus we are able to focus all of our attention on incredible creative endeavors and bettering ourselves as well rounded percussionists. Expect big things out of this ensemble. I have changed the complexion of this class to allw the creative juices to flow, and for the wonder to begin!
Our new independant study-Music theory-Music and Technology Class has started with a BANG!! It really is an experiment and so far it is a success!for more information about this team taught class, email Jason Smigell at smigellj@howellschools.com
The Jazz Band will begin 2nd quarter! After last year, I think we might try taking the jazz band on the road again!!! This time to MSBOA Jazz festival. This Ensemble is open to ANYONE in the program... EVEN NINTH GRADER$!! In the past we have taken a modern lean on the repertiore selection of this group and I intend to continue the trend. For some reason, the HHSJB loves funk. I love funk.... Why mess with it? This is not to say that the HHSJB will not play swing or blues or latin... We will diversify... maybe even with a little gospel (my new infatuation). But the main focus shall be funk... for now.
I STILL AM TRYING TO DRUM UP ENTUSIASM FOR IRISH FOLK MUSIC!!! I will be talking to the kids about this in the near future...
THERE WILL BE A MUSICAL THIS YEAR.... but we don't know yet what it is.. I will let you know as soon as Ms. Pringle decides. Any way you slice it... There will be a pit band!!
OK... I think that that is it!!! Sometimes it takes a long time to get the blog out, but the following blog is enormous. It have not been this excited about the start of the year since my first year here (I mean it!!) The boundries truly are governed by the STUDENTS within the program.
Mr. Smigell
P.s. MINIONS... CHECK THE MINION'S BLOG!!!
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