Payments

Hello My Wonderful Band Family,

    I have had a lot of questions about making your band payments, thanks so much for wanting to do that!! We will be at the Fireworks Thursday evening, if you need to bring forms or payments.  Thank you so much to all who volunteered to help out.  If you can join us or come see the show. 

     Remember that the first day of Band Camp is July 20th and we are venturing to Cajun Field for the Drum and Bugle Corp Show.  If you plan to attend, tickets are $22.  We need to know you are coming to order the right number of tickets.

    Also, I wanted to give you the address again to send payments if that is more convenient. 

Ponchatoula Boosters

P.O. Box 202

Ponchatoula, LA  70454.

Feel free to contact me at

kathy.cusimano@tangischools.org

or Cell #  (985)687-7033

Have a terrific day,   Kathy

JSquare, NBCT

Director of Bands

Ponchy Fireworks July 2

Hello Everyone!

     I  wanted to remind you all that we run the concession stand each year at the Ponchatoula Fireworks held this Thursday at the Ponchatoula Recreation Park from 5:30-10:00!

   

      I wanted to send a spectacular shout out to all my parents who have already signed up to help out and an invitation to the rest of you who may be able and excited to give us a hand! We will begin setting up and cooking at 2:30, and have 2 hour time slots (2:30-4:30, 4:30-6:30. 6:30-8:30.and 8:30-10:30 and Clean-up!  If you can come out and lend a hand, please E-mail or text me!!

     Thanks so much!!  See you all soon, looking forward to a fantastic night of fellowship, fireworks and hard work!!!

Kathy Cusimano

Cell (985)687-7033

E-mail:  kathy.cusimano@tangischools.org

JSquare, NBCT

Director of Bands

HELP!! ASAP in the next 30 minutes!!

Band... Now read this!

We have a big "shipment" of concessions products for this Thursday's PARD Fireworks show.

If you are in the immediate vicinity (close to) the school, and have a few minutes, can you help load and reload these supplies (drinks, chips, etc.)? It's a lot of stuff.

Please...You don't have to make a special trip, but if you are near, we would appreciate your help. And yes, the weather has passed over...for now.

Thanks,

JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

Carwash and Fireworks

Good Evening Band Family!

     I want to remind you about our CARWASH scheduled for THIS Saturday, June 27th form 8-2 at both Ponchatoula High School and O'Reilly's in Ponchatoula.  STUDENTS AND PARENTS, we really need YOUR help, if you can join us for any amount of time, please reply on Facebook, or Email me at kathy.cusimano@tangischools.org.  I really appreciate your support!!

   I want to give a huge shout out and thanks to all you amazing parents that attended our last Booster Meeting and signed up for so many of our Committees, Carwash and Fireworks! If you could not make it, you can still join in and help us at any or all of our upcoming events.

    Next on the schedule is our concessions at the Ponchatouola Fireworks on Thursday, July 2nd!  I really need a few more people for the 6:30-8:30  time slot and Clean-up crew!  Again please E-mail me at kathy.cusimano@tangischools.org! 

Thanks so much and have a wonderful week!! Kathy Cusimano

JSquare, NBCT

Director of Bands

Final 14-15 Band TWIB

Band... Now read this!!

Congratulations again to the Class of 2015! You will always have a home here at 19452. Papa Square will miss you all.

A big shout out to the moms who made the paper chase happen this week to get 15-16 Band ready to roll!

MINI-CAMP!!! BLT !!! Good work, everyone, all around today!

And now for some much needed R 'n R for the BD...

BAND... HALT!!!!

 
JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

FINAL Spring 2015 TWIB

Band... Now Read This!!

Wow! That was quick...the whole school year!

As we are closing this year, and starting another, please allow me to say thank you to all of you for another terrific "family get together" this 2014-15! We accomplished a lot in so many aspects of band life: skill, musicianship, rigor of music, drill, expression in MB, Symphonic, Guard, Percussion, Boosters involvement, and we had fun in Jazz! So much to look back on and just go..WOW!Thank you all for being part of the Greenwave Family!

Great job this past week with everything we had going on. We especially did a first class job in musical support for the USS Ponchatoula Memorial Dedication. I wish that the sound system had been better so that you could have heard the rhetoric from the speakers' platform! We looked and sounded great! So many of the Shipmates and folks in the audience were impressed and appreciative of our presence and contribution to the ceremony. Kudos to the moms and pops for your logistics support. (That was the mission of the USS Ponchatoula  and the theme of the Admiral's comments yesterday morning).

The "end of the world" party was a huge success! Thanks Lacey and Jeremy (MWR) and all of the moms who pitched in, and the "grill master" dad (Deputy Dad! Thanks!) for finishing up on the burgers! I hope that everyone enjoyed the DJ and photo booth! And seniors who gave their testimonies... you are and will always be special to our Greenwave Band family. We are proud of you and will miss you.

See the TWIB for this week... we're almost done!

Listen in class for additional details.

Graduation ASR on Tuesday, Practice with the Class of 2015 @ SLU University Center on Wednesday a.m., and the Commencement Exercises (aka Graduation Ceremony) on Wednesday evening are graded events, same as all performances.
Mini-info... listen in class. These are after dismissal on the 1/2 days.
See you on campus.

JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

Testimonials and Party

Band... Now Read This!
Time to get this party started!
Sorry for the late start and inclement weather. Testimonials will begin around 6:30. Picture booth is up; grill is almost hot; DJ is on the way. Getting it all solved.
Let's Boogie!

JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

2015 COLOR GUARD CLINIC

DM Auditions Schedule Change

BAND... Now read this!  

This message is for Drum Major candidates. 

Auditions will be on Monday, 18 May, beginning immediately after school. We should be done by 5:30. Check the current Charms calendar for this adjustment.

 
JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

11 May TWIB Notes

Band… Now Read This!!

We are nearing the end of another great year of Greenwave Band! Nearing…but not done yet!! Please read this TWIB carefully. We have a lot going on this week (Busy is SOP around here Standard Operating Procedure!) 2015-16 Guard…read your calendar and check with Mary Anna for any additional details of this week.

Monday 11 May  The Annual Band Awards Banquet will be fun! The food will be great! And I am sure that we’ll all enjoy each other’s company in a beautiful venue right here in downtown Ponchatoula! The doors will open for seating at 6:30. Buffet service will be announced by classes. Attire for this special event is “Sunday Best.” I am sure that you will all look amazing! And the final slideshow will be fantastic! 

Tuesday 12 May  SYMPHONIC BAND ASR   What’s up with all the stars?? This is MANDATORY for any and everyone who was not present for the Tuesday, 5 May ASR. No shows at this ASR will result in a DRASTIC reduction in your grade for the 6^th six weeks, as you will be “0” for ASR (5, 12, and 15 May), USS Ponchatoula Dedication (16 May, and Graduation Practice/Ceremony (20 May).  If you were present for ASR on 5 May, you may attend the 12 May ASR, but not required of you since you keep your end of the commitment agreement for the ensemble! THANK YOU!

Wednesday 13 May This will be a meeting with all prospective Band Leadership members, ending at 3:45. Likewise and simultaneously, there will be a Drum Major Auditions Clinic, which will end when it ends. Everyone else, we love you, but PLEASE go home. Thank you!

Thursday 14 May  Please attend the MVES/PJHS Spring Concert! Most of you came through this feeder program, which is the lifeblood of the Greenwave Band. Come out and support our future members! Get there early as I am sure it will be jam-packed! Mind your manners… ‘Nuff said!

Friday 15 May  (Trifecta)

ASR for the USS Ponchatoula Memorial Dedication Ceremony   we will pack chairs, stands, and large instruments after this ASR. You will be responsible for taking your Full Dress Marching Uniform (yes, you need your shako!) home with you. 

Class of 2015 Testimonies We will begin right at the end of ASR. Seniors, please give some thought to what your remarks might be BEFORE this event! The door reluctantly awaits your appointed time.

“END of the WORLD” Band Party!  Be there!! IT’s our last family gathering. I know that MWR officers will be “on point” to make this fun for everyone!

Saturday   May 16

USS Ponchatoula Memorial Dedication Ceremony

 You must arrive properly “dressed up, from the floor up” in FDMU on Saturday morning! Bring your Uniform bag and hanger!  DOWNBEAT is 8:30. We will begin playing around 9:30 as guests and dignitaries arrive. The ceremony begins at 10:00. Dismissal will be when we are finished, approximately 11: 30. Listen for instructions for uniforms and equipment. This is an “once-in-a-lifetime event” solemn, reverent, and cultural.

Drum Major Auditions

These CLOSED auditions will begin around 1:00 at the bandroom.

 
JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

Tuesday 5 May 2015 Senior Send-Off and ASR

Band... NRT!
Happy Cinco de Mayo!

Here are some notes for Tuesday, 5 May.
Seniors, be on time for the Senior Class Breakfast. Starts at 6:45 am, in the cafeteria. Remember to dress according to the announcement from Mrs. Crovetto in Monday's morning broadcast.

All 11th, 10th, and 9th grade, grab your instrument/equipment and hustle out for Senior Send-Off. It would behoove you to do this BEFORE the 1st morning bell. Be prepared for the Fight Song, Alma Mater, maybe Chant. Scurry back to your regularly scheduled 1st period class.Your teachers will have a roster in their email.

Symphonic Band ASR for everyone until 4:30. This rehearsal will be primarily for the USS Ponchatoula Dedication ceremony.

Heads up for Thursday: 

Ponchatoula Spotlight Rally in town 4:00 at the locomotive with WGNO TV. You must wear Green Polo or Green 14-15 Band Shirt, or any GREENWAVE top! This will be on TV, so represent correctly!

Guard "Chic-Fil-A" Night   All 2015-16 Guard members... BE THERE!!! You heard Mrs. Crovetto tell you how important this fundraiser is for guard!   BE THERE!!

Finally that evening, Miss Shana Sampia (remember our flute solist from Spring Concert?!?!) will be performing a recital here at PHS Auditorium. She will perform on flute and piano, while I will play tuba. We are excited to have a chance to play for YOU!! Be there and hear us with the "horns on OUR faces!!"
Yes, we are near the end of this school year. HANG ON TO THE ROPE!!

See you all on campus!

JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

State Solo Festival Official Results

This past Saturday, 13 band members participated in the LMEA State Solo Festival at UL-Lafayette. All of these student-musicians played beautifully, representing our school and community.  Our performers included :

Kimberly Ordeneaux, 10^th grade, on clarinet

Javier Hernandez, 11^th grade, and Joey Verret, 9^th grade, and on trumpet

and Ashley Milton, 10^th grade on flute.

The following students earned the Prestigious State Soloist Gold Medal for their performances:

Freshmen class Ella Boihem, Ami Gauthier, Lindsey Miller, and Kendal Vining, all on flute;

Sophomore Charne Hill on clarinet;

Juniors Austin Roy on euphonium, Charles Hooper on trumpet, and Zackery Cusimano on tuba; and

Senior Scott Poulin on euphonium.

Congratulations to each and every one of you for your fine achievements! And thank you to Mr. Square for all of hard work and care in preparing these students for this event.

JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

State Solo Festival Saturday 2 May

Band .... Now Read This!   This message is for our participants in today's State Solo Festival. Meet at the bandroom at 10 am, dressed for the day (Sunday's best!). Eat before you arrive. And you should bring a snack for the bus ride. We will eat a late lunch after we perform (you'll need about $10). Be sure that you have your instrument, music, brain, manners. Let's have a great musical day!

JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

Band Banquet Scheduled for May 11th

Band....Now Read This!!!

As you know, our annual band banquet is Monday, May 11, 2015. Door open at 6:30 p.m. The cost is $15 per person. Please get your funds in with the number of guest that will be attending with you for a proper head count. Please place in the lock box by Mr. Square's office.

If you are interested in being on the decorating committee for this event, please use the Contact Form on www.phsmarchingband.com to let us know. Thank you.

Tina Hooper

Booster President

20 Apr TWIB

Band... Now read this!

It would BEHOOVE you all, each and everyone of you, to be in your seat for the full time of ASR's this week. Otherwise, you might not find a place on stage for yourself, nor a favorable mark in the Gradebook!

Let's have a great week!

JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

Saturday, 18 Apr "PHS All-School Celebration!"

BAND... NOW READ THIS!!

We are still on for today at LaFleur de Lis "PHS All-School Celebration"

Volunteer Pep Band 2:30EXTRA POINTS for most; REDEMPTION POINTS for those in desperate need of help!! 

Downbeat near LFdL (6th and Hickory). Look for the trailer. Wear Band polo, 14-15 Band Shirt, Green and White, (no need for marching shoes) Rubber boots might be nice! Guard...Captain D and/or Mrs. Crovetto already sent out your instructions. 

Stay dry and safe! See you all there. 

TWIB coming soon!

 
JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

Announcements for Band Members

A couple of announcements for all BAND MEMBERS -

Tuesday, April 23, 2015 - Band Spring Concert at PHS Auditorium beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Monday, May 11, 2015 - Band Banquet at Fleur De Lis - doors opening at 6:30 p.m. The cost is $15 per person. The dress is dressy casual. Forms will be sent home with students to fill out and send back for a head count.

These are important events. Parents interested in decorating the Fleur De Lis earlier in the day, please use the Contact form on the band website (www.phsmarchingband.com) to sign up. Thank you.

Tina Hooper

President

PHS Band Boosters

Event POSTPONED!

Band... Now read this!

The WGNO "News with a Twist" called me to confirm that the event scheduled for tomorrow, Thursday 16 Apr, has been RESCHEDULED to Thursday, 7 May.

On that day, 7 May, contingency plans (weather related) will be as follows:

1 (if by land) Outside, near the locomotive on Railroad Avenue;

2 (if by sea) Inside, at Warehouse 140

Volunteer Pep Band (highly suggested that you participate); Polos, Khakis, Visors; "Pep Rally/Rah-Rah/Parade Jams

We will be on the 5:00 and 6:00 broadcasts that evening! Cool stuff, huh!?!

Later at 6:30, doors open for the Faculty Recital, featuring Miss Shana Sampia (flute and piano) and me (Tuba)! Be there! Reception afterwards!


More details as we get closer.


JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

Booster Meeting

LETS GET READY TO HAVE A MEETING!!!! EH!!!!!

Booster meeting Wednesday, April 29, 2015 at 6:30 p.m. in the band room. The reason for the time pushed back to insure that Color Guard has completed auditions and parents are available for the voting procedure at the band booster meeting. Thank you, Thank you. Hope to see everyone there, including all new faces.

Color Guard Tryouts

It's that time of year again!!! Color Guard tryouts are just around the corner. I will be offering an audition and technique mini camp every Tuesday and Thursday until tryouts from 3-4:30. If you've ever wanted to spin a flag or toss a rifle, come out and try it. The first camp is tomorrow. Invite your friends and come have a good time!

Delaney Pinion
Colorguard Captain

Booster Meeting

BOOSTER MEETING FOR APRIL 21, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. in the band room. All please attend as there will be voting on next year's boosters officers and some other end of the year events and dates. Very important!! See you there.

13 Apr TWIB

Welcome Back!!

JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL ROUND UP INFORMATION

BAND... TEN-Hut!!! Now read this!!!

I hope that everyone has enjoyed Spring Break thus far. My road trip to my TX family was great over the Easter weekend. On my way home, I spent some time with a Band family from my younger band director years. It is not easy to say goodbye to a former student.
Now back here at home, it has been nice to have a day or 2 of "down time", what ever that means.
Big thanks and shout outs to the dads, moms, and band kids who all worked,.. I mean WORKED!... to haul, assemble, decorate, and test our booth for the Strawberry Festival. Hats off to the Strawberry Festival Board members, especially Mr. Craig and My. Jimmy for stopping by to lend a helping hand! Thank you to all of you moms, dads, band members for all of your "blood, sweat, and tears" in problem-solving, ingenuity, and tenacity in putting "the Taj Mahal" together. 
Now what need want is for everyone to pitch in, work your shifts, recruit a little more help for the shifts the need more warm bodies, and use your nice-polite smiley bestest friendly customer service manners in serving our guests all throughout the weekend.
Here's the parade information. Downbeat is 8:23 fully dressed. WE will be ACROSS Hwy 22 from Mi Patio, on South Barone Street. Look for the trailer. (PJHS Band and some other folks will meet at Mi Patio..NOT US!!) We will be ACROSS Hwy 22 from Mi Patio (folks from my generation will know it as the old Bootsy's). If you need to be dropped off, I suggest coming in from Esterbrook Road/ South 1st Street, to avoid having to walk acroos the HWY! SAFETY FIRST, y'all! Warm-up and musical rehearsal needs to start at 8:33. We will end at Perrin School, after we make the turn on 7th Street. 
Please remember that you are representing the best in the youth generation of our community. We adults, especially me, know that you will make us proud.

See you all soon at the festival park ( I know.. I call it the fairgrounds!) and ON TIME for the parade. Let's show up and show out!!

 
JSquare, NBCT 
Director of Bands

Strawberry Festival Help Needed!!

ATTENTION ALL BAND AND COLOR GUARD PARENTS:

Our Strawberry Festival booth is our biggest fundraiser of the year. This year the festival board decided to open the fairgrounds earlier due to the kids being out of school for their spring break. The booths and rides will open at 12 noon. We are definitely in need if help the entire weekend as well as Thursday, April 9 for set up and decorating the booth. NOW would be the time to step up and participate, not only to support your child, but also the entire organization. Following is the long list so shifts that need to be filled:

Thursday, April 9 for set up 8:00am- approx noon or 1pm.
Friday, April 10 to setup bingo area, ice drinks down, start cotton candy,etc. 8:00am - 11:00 am. To work BINGO, PULL TABS, DRINKS/CC- 11:30am - 3pm, 2:30pm - 6pm, 5;30pm -8pm, 7:30pm - 10pm. NOTE: The 2:30pm - 6pm shift is FULL for Drinks/CC.
Saturday, April 11 setup 7:00am - 10:00am
To work BINGO, PULL TABS, DRINKS/CC:
10:00am - 1pm, 12:30pm - 3:30pm, 3pm - 6pm, 5:30pm - 8:30pm and 8pm - 11 pm.
Sunday, April 12 to set up 7:00am - 10:00am.
To work BINGO, PULL TABS, DRINKS/CC:
10am -1pm, 12:30pm - 3:30pm, 3pm - 6pm and finally 6pm - till for booth tear down and clean up.

ALL HELP IS APPRECIATED!!!

30 Mar TWIB

Band...Now read this!

What an incredible week we just finished! Excellent performances in both concert and sight-reading with Symphonic Band! A big shout-out to the moms and pops who chaperoned and drove the truck/trailer. I am even proud of the Friday in class critique with partners... you all did a great job and critical thinkers and discriminating listeners! 5, count them, FIVE back-to-back-to-back-to-back-to back amazing runs, this past Wednesday, of the Winterguard show in front of the entire 9th and 10th grades! And then an awe inspiring performance at the end-of-season Championship Show in Thibodaux on Saturday! 

Wait...there's more... 2 fantastic Guard Solos in Individuals and a Senior Ensemble in the I&E at E.D. White HS (that's in Thibodaux, too. Do some American History research and you'll understand that significance of that school's name!) MAC and the Senior girls, bringing home 1st place medals is incredible! And "Mirror, Mirror" with a 6th place finish in a fiercely competitive field of 19 squads...simply AMAZING and I could not be a prouder "Papa Square" smile emoticon And how about that "paint-up crew" and Mom/Pop Entourage!! THANKS for all that you do in support of the WG activities. And how about that Friday afternoon concessions trailer, et al, clean-up crew!?!? THANK YOU to the moms, kids, and pop, that pulled a "GI Party" like getting ready for a "white glove inspection", huh!?!?!! 2 thumbs way up!!

Yes, Allen Euphonium, I am feeling emotional. I am blessed to have such a wonderful band family! To close this incredible weekend, I had the privilege of attending Shawn's Court of Honor, at which he officially received the rank of Eagle Scout! Way to go..I am proud of you. I am especially humbled and touched that Shawn singled me out and "pinned" me as one of his 3 Eagle Scout Mentors. Sometimes, I wonder if I make a difference... thanks for the vote of confidence.

Read on... This is a busy week with preparations for Spring Break Strawberry Festival.

1. Be sure to check the TWIB. NOTE *** There will be no Jazz Band ASR on Monday. I took the picture before I finished editing.

2. There will be an official Strawberry Festival Booth Sign-Up for all students on Tuesday. Please be sure to check with your parents to see when they will be working in the Bingo Tent or supervising Cotton Candy and drinks sales. Scott will have a poster/spreadsheet for sign-up. Work shifts begin on Thursday with booth assembly, CC/Drinks operations on Friday late morning through Sunday evening (with "tear down/clean-up).

3. Parade Music goes out Monday in classes; MUSIC ASR on Tuesday; Thursday will be Parade practice and parade trailer packing...remember that Spring Break begins this Friday.
4. Wednesday ASR is Jazz Band!

5. We will have a guest performers from Burke HS in South Carolina on campus this Tuesday morning. I will need a small set-up crew to help them. Additionally, I will have you called out of class to report to the auditorium for their performance.

Yeah, yeah...I know this has been a long message. Please re-read it so you have an idea of what's up This Week In Band!
See y'all on campus!!

JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

For Tues Mar 24

Now read this for Tuesday 24 Mar 15

INTONATION!!! is still on the priority list, symphonic band!! It would behoove all trumpet players to get your valve slides in PROPER working order!

Guard... it's on! Championship Show this Saturday!! And to the ladies in the senior ensemble and our soloists...yeah, it's on there, too!

Jazz Band will have ASR on Tuesday (no poke chop nor stupid stuff no, 75 before we get started, please!) Boom Boom, One Note Samba, Swing Fever, and Blue Skies. Please check your schedule after Jazz Band. We have been requested to have a representative group at tomorrow's home Baseball game for a brief Flag-Raising Ceremony before the game begins. This will be done in tribute to the local National Guardsmen who recently gave "the last measure of devotion" in the heliocopter accident. Be prepared to play the Star-Spangled Banner, PHS Alma Mater. More information tomorrow. We will grab a bite eat together afterwards.

See you all on campus!

 
JSquare, NBCT 

23 Mar TWIB

Band... now read this!!

Thanks again to the moms and pops who worked so hard this past Friday on the Crawfish Fettuccine Dinners!! 

Thanks to the moms and pops who made the trip to Denham Springs this past Saturday to cheer on our Winterguard. The ladies had an amazing performance, and I could not be any prouder of them! I know that they will work extremely hard this week in preparation for the CHAMPIONSHIP show down there in Thibodaux!

This is a busy week (when are we NOT busy???!!!) Please check the TWIB.

Symphonic Band.... we will travel to Northshore HS in Slidell this Thursday for the Large Ensemble Assessment (Concert and Sight-reading). Please listen carefully in class for details. 

See you all on campus.

TUESDAY, 17 Mar 15 Testing, Testing!

Band... NRT!

For Tuesday ACT testing:

Those of you who ARE testing, remember to bring the materials that the counselors mentioned (pencils, calculators, photo ID, etc.)  Best wishes!

The rest of you who ARE NOT testing, report to your "holding site" for the morning. Remain there for the duration of testing.

EVERYONE has ASR tomorrow before the MidSemester Concert. 3:00 - 5:30  (this includes set-up in the auditorium and on-stage rehearsal). We will take a break near the end to watch the Winterguard do a run -through of it's competition show. THEN, we will eat! Afterwards, dress for the concert, perform, and go home. We will strike the set (pick-up, move back to the band hall) on Wednesday morning.

BE THERE and ON-TIME for ASR!! I am sure that some of you may not make to campus for Testing-holding, but you need to make it a priority to be here for the  ASR/evening activities. 

See you tomorrow,

JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

16 March TWIB

Band... Now read this!!

See the attached photo.

Tuesday will be a long day... School/Testing, ASR,  Pizza Dinner (it will be brought to us... DO NOT LEAVE CAMPUS!)

MIDSEMESTER CONCERT is mandatory! Non-negotiable.. we go to District Large Ensemble Assessment next week. We will qualify for State Assessment! GHAP!!  Dress for MidSemester is Band Polo with Black Bottoms (Formal Trousers for boys; Girls wear Black slacks or skirt); BLACK SHOES (Dark socks, gentlemen!) CONCERT Starts at 6:30!!

Thursday's SYMPHONIC BAND ASR is tentative (TBA), dependent on Midsemester Concert.

Remember that the Fettuccine Dinner FR will be Friday. Some of you will have dinner plates delivered to you at lunchtime...Bon Appetit!

Busy week, huh WG! This has been a productive, challenging season. Finish strong!  Next week, you know it's on, it's on, it's on, it's on, it's on... IT'S ON!!!!!!

See you on campus!

 
JSquare, NBCT 
Director of Bands

16 Mar week heads up

Band.. Now read this!!

I have been in Lafayette since Tuesday evening. Non-stop judging for me. Franklinton HS finished Solo Assessment really late on Tuesday night, I ran home, grabbed my bag and headed to Lafayette. Today is the 3rd and final day of large ensemble assessment here. 22 bands on Wednesday, 21, Thursday, and 21 more today!

I will see you all on Campus Monday. I will have the official results from Solo Assessment.

TUESDAY will be a long day, with testing (ACT), and afterschool rehearsal, diner and Mid-Semester Concert (6:30). Dress will be same as Parish Assessment (we'll do formal wear for the District at the end of the month).  WG Rehearsal

Wednesday   Jazz band ASR

Thursday Symphonic ASR    WG Rehearsal

Friday   Fettuccine Dinner FR  (Yum, yum!)  WG Rehearsal Run/Through for Denham Springs Show

Saturday   WG at Denham Springs

Heading out to Judge bands until 7:00 ish tonight.


See you on campus!





JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

Spirit Rally and Solo Assessment

Band...Now read this! Urgent News for Today!

"One if by land; two if by sea"    There will be a "Spirit Rally" in honor of the State Champion Girls' Basketball Team this morning. "ONE"  if it IS NOT raining, We'll be in front of the school (same as send-off last Wednesday) to raise the Victory Flag and to celebrate. "TWO" if it IS raining, we will have a"parade " of some kind in through the hallways. PLEASE listen for instructions!!

Solo Assessment continues today. We will begin during 1st lunch and continue throughout the remainder of the school day and into the evening. Only a handful of you played yesterday, so we will have a very packed line-up today. We will continue into the regular ASR time for you to get this done. 

See you on campus.

 
JSquare, NBCT 
Director of Bands

Solo Assessment Today!!

BAND... NOW READ THIS!!

Solo Assessment begins now. One of the judges is here and waiting!!  Drive up, play your solo!

JSQUARE

JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

9 Mar TWIB DIFFERENT!!

Band...now read this!

Again, thank you for fine performances all around, throughout last, and continuing through the weekend. A special thanks to the "Mighty Handful" that were able to make the Welcome Rally for the girls' Basketball team. I know it was extremely short notice....I got the official word on this about 1/2 hour before a message was sent through Charms. Thank you Miss Dina, Mr. Jerome, and Delaney for quick thinking and action.

Congrats , Winterguard! The hard work is paying off

SOLO Assessment/Festival
2 judges will be ready to hear you play, beginning around 11:30. You play for only one of them, not both. Ifyou can drive or have reliale transportation, please play between 11:30 and 2:00, please let me know (either email, text, or call Mr.Square This is directed at those of you who raised your hand, when asked last 'week, indicating that you could play on Monday. All others, plan on playing on Tuesday

Mr. Square would appreciate some help Monday, morning unloading the parade trailer.

Important Boosters' meeting at 6:00 pm, Monday evening.


JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands  

Saturday 7 March

Band... now read this!!

Krewe of Erin parade in town this morning. See you all at the trailer 9:30, Memorial Park (aka Strawberry Festival Park). It is a little "crisp and brisk" this morning, so please wear a light layer under your uniform. This is a short, fun hometown parade event. Let's look and sound good! For ease of traffic purposes we will dismiss back near the park where we started. See you all soon.

Heads up.... Check for TWIB notes later today for next week's schedule.

GEAUX, Lady Waves Basketball!!!

Good luck JROTC and Science Olympiad teams!

And Winterguard... Who's the fairest!?! You got this... now show them WHAT you got!!

 
JSquare, NBCT 
Director of Bands

TAME Parish Band Assessment Day News / Guard Rehearsal

Band... Now read this!!
I'll start with GUARD: remember the information from Mrs. Crovetto and Miss Krystal. Let's have a great day!
And now on to BAND:  Instructions for Parish Assessment
1. Dress Code is Green Polo, Khaki Bottoms, Dark Socks, Dark Shoes.
2. REPORT to 1st period class. You will be dismissed from this class AFTER the announcements! THEN come to the bandroom.
3. We are playing these selections for adjudication (judging):
PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE = "Winter"  and "Mi Milagro"  8:40
SYMPHONIC BAND = "Emblem of Unity", "Salvation is Created", and "Thunderscape"  9:00

PJHS plays at 9:20; Vinyard plays at 10:00

Symphonic  Band will be allowed to participate in the FULL day of Band Assessment (as a performer and listener/learner). Be sure to thank Mr. Strickland!
I will be available until 2:45 ish if you need help with your Solo.

See you on campus.

JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

MISOM!! March Is "MUSIC In Our Schools Month"

Band... Now read this!!

I know this is not the classroom TWIB board, but you get the idea.

More details about the Parish Band Assessment at our school will come on Monday, during classes. It would behoove you all to pay attention to these details.

Plan to be on campus from the time you arrive for school UNTIL the end of the Mid-Semester Concert. A meal will be provided  during thie time between Band Assessment and Concert.

The Krewe of Erin parade is this Saturday morning in "uptown" Ponchatoula. This is a required event for ALL, I repeat, ALL brasswinds, woodwinds, and percussionists!!! Guard will not be required to march this parade, as you all will be preparing for the Dutchtown WG Show.

I will continue to "burn" practice CD's for all soloists. Some of you will use the SmartMusic accompaniment system. Either way, GHAP your part!!!

Congrats to the WG for a solid performance at the E.D. White show in Thibodaux. Let's get to work to "sell" this awesome show to the crowd and judges!!

See you all on campus!



JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

From our Awesome Winterguard; posted by the Captain!

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT!!!!! All parents and students are invited to attend a showcase of our 2015 Winterguard show. We will start at 8:00 p.m. Come see a sneak peak of our amazing show!
 

PHS Gym , tomorrow night Fri 27 Feb

JSquare, NBCT 
Director of Bands

23 Feb TWIB

Band... Now read this!!

Welcome back from the Mardi Gras break! It seems that this Spring semester is passing by rather fast, even with the disjunctive flow of the school calendar. Nonetheless, we are ALWAYS busy!
Please check the TWIB for this week's ASR activities. Likewise, take a look at the March calendar on Charms and/or the website.

Winterguard... It's back to the Saturday routine this week with E.D. White show in Thibodaux! I am so proud of the work that you all have done since the "season opener" at Comeaux. Time to boost our score with an awe-inspired at the Civic Center this weekend. Are you psyched? I am!!

Jazz Band... I was able to find a cool (and very challenging) Latin chart for us to work up. Waiting on another hip, funk tune (you'll love it!) And I have information about the JAZZ fests at both Loyola and SLU. IF you are interested in seeing Dimensions in Blue (Jazz Band from the Air Force Band of the West,  Lackland AFB, San Antonio TX), let me know. They will be in concert at the Columbia Theatre in Hammond this Tuesday night, 24 Feb. Tickets are free... just need to know how many are interested.

Symphonic Band... Check the ASR schedule. We have 3 more full rehearsals before Parish Band Assessment/Festival and Mid Semester Concert on March 5th!

SOLO Assessment/Festival has been rescheduled to Mar 9 and 10, to accommodate all of our entries, as well as those from other local participating schools. I have been preparing practice CD's (not done yet!), so check with me. Someone asked me, "What is the best way to prepare for Solo Fest, Mr. Square?"  My response (take a guess!) "GHAP!"

Fettuccine Dinner Tickets!!!   Hope you are all selling!!

Stay dry... and warm!

See you on campus!

JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

Important Announcement: BAND PARTY

MWR Announcement:

"STOP... And Smell the Roses!!
Band & Color Guard Party!!
Saturday, February 21st
In the Band room
6pm-9:45pm
Themes: Mardi Gras & Valentine's Day
Let's celebrate our 1st place win!
Punch and drinks will be provided. Each class please bring the following plus $1 per person to help cover drinks and decorations:
• Freshman: Main food type items (sandwiches, tenders, nuggets, hotdog/bun, etc)
• Sophmores: Chips/ Dip
• Juniors: Desserts
• Seniors: Plates & Utensils
Everyone must have reliable transportation to and from the party and must be gone by 10:15pm.
Please share this info with any member that doesn't have Facebook.

JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

9 Feb TWIB

Band... Now Read This!!

Thanks to everyone who made the Krewe of Omega Parade last night. As much as I do not care for all of the flashing police lights, uneven street surfaces, and bad street lighting along the route, I must say that I had FUN!! The knee is a bit "tired" this morning, but it is my feet that are still screaming out for relief right now! A special shout out, thank you, hat's off to all of the parent/boosters who "walked" the route with us. Your support was overwhelming!! Band, the crowd enjoyed our tunes! I was mostly behind percussion, and I was glad to see the crowd dancing (and singing) to our music. We will find a little time to check our spacing and turns. 

For those wondering about the "make up event" , stay tuned for more announcements!

Check the TWIB. We are busy in a very different way this week. Please schedule your non-band after-school activities around the Tuesday, 10 Feb ASR!! Note that Jazz Band meets on MONDAY. Boosters Meeting is Monday. Remember to return your Fettuccine Dinner letter.

See you on campus!

JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

PARADE: Krewe of Omega Friday, 6 Feb 2015

Band... Ten-Hut!! Now read this!

It's time.... Mardi Gras!! (Rah, Rah!)

Here's is what you need to know for the parade tomorrow evening in Hammond:

Krewe of Omega

NO BUS TRANSPORTATION for event!!

1. During your band class, please load your FDMU (Full Dress Marching Uniform) onto the trailer (check to make sure to handle your own bag, including your shako box). We will dress at the trailer, so you must take care of arriving early, with the proper shoes and socks. Also, load your instrument before you leave campus. Colorguard...follow the uniform instructions that were announced at WG practice. The temperature has been predicted to be near 40 degrees, so think about wearing a full, light layer under your your FDMU.
2. Meet at the band trailer no later than 5:15, at the University Center. we will be in the parking lot (look for the trailer!)
3. Our parade tunes will be "Hey Baby!"and "Boogie Shoes", filled in with marching cadences. The parade "steps off" at 6:30 pm. Depending on the flow, we should conclude around 7:45.
4. The "pick-up point" will be near Fayard Hall on North Oak Street, one of the border street of the SLU campus. There are a couple of lighted parking lots near this building. DO NOT LEAVE until you have been dismissed!! Your attendance/participation is a graded event. The make-up event... TBA!
5. Thank you in advance all parents/boosters who will be volunteering to walk as band escorts...we could not do this without you!

See you on campus!

JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

2 Feb TWIB

Band... now read this!!
Batten down the hatches! There's a busy week a'brewin' on the horizon, maties! ARRRGH! Sorry for the pirate humor. Jack Sparrow is on full blast in the living room!

JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

27 Jan TWIB

Band... Now read this!!

Where did January go? February... kind of like main street in Mayberry: Don't blink, 'cause you might miss it!

I'll be back later to recap our busy Honor Band, Winterguard, "get ready for SACS" weekend!

More later after Beignets Run! Mark your calendars. GHAP!

JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands

MLK Week TWIB

Band … Now read this!!

Thank you for a great full week of music making. Here’s a quick recap:

WINDS: I can tell that some of you have been working on you solos…keep it up. I will make more copies of the “Solo Analysis Form” as you WILL need to use this as you practice. We will continue with theory, ear-training, and counting as we get new concert literature. Chair placement scales are almost complete. I am looking forward to great rehearsal and performance opportunities this spring semester. PLEASE label your binder with your name (not every has done this yet!) and remember to equip yourself with a PENCIL!  Special note to those of you who will be participating in District Honor Band this week: 1. Remember to turn in your $20.00 if you have not already done so; 2. Be early for all rehearsals (Thursday evening, All Day Friday, and Saturday rehearsal and Concert!

PERCUSSION: I am so impressed that you all have used the in-class “Mini-Camp” time very well. The peer tutoring, the practicing, the chalkboard lessons, and staying on task….it’s all been good! Keep it up! We will start to put together a repertoire list for a percussion ensemble concert/recital. And I am still checking on the possibility of inviting another school to share this performance with us. This will be fun and get everyone involved, especially since the literature for symphonic band does not call for extensive percussion parts.

GUARD: Wow! What a great start to the Winterguard season! The design, choreography, intensity, movement, work ethic, courage… how can I not be excited!?! I can only take a sliver of credit for what we have achieved to this point, but I take full pride in everything you do! Yesterday’s Field Day was a huge success! A big round of applause from me to all of you! Thank you Mr. Crovetto, “Mama Cro”, Guard moms and pops, “Paint-up Crew”, and groupies for helping in every aspect of helping to host this event. Mr. Craig and Mr. Randy both had positive and encouraging comments (sounds like K-Love radio!) about how well we prepared and ran this event. WHEN we get double-doors….!!! So this week is the Comeaux show, right? Let’s build on the clinic and comments from Field Day… get angry! And sell this performance. Draw in the audience as you express yourselves! Geaux Guard!!

Jazz Band: Let’s get ready to rumble! We don’t have the luxury of a class period, so let’s max our afternoon time. We might also use the 1-hour academic period for some rehearsal time. If we want to achieve some of the performance opportunities, we can certainly benefit from more time together.

Please allow me to encourage each and every one of you to observe MLK Day with acts of kindness and service for and toward others. Remember that you have 2 hands for a reason! And find some time (at least 20 minutes!) to GHAP!

See you on campus!

JSquare, NBCT
Director of Bands