Page 3 - index

“

Attending the Midwest Band

and Orchestra Clinic was without

a doubt one of the best experiences “

of my high school career.

Senior euphonium player, Devon Stith

grades band directors Shane Goforth, John Reed and Clay Jasper expected
of them.

“It was difficult to juggle school work, marching and preparing for Midwest,
but in the end, it was so worth it.” Senior French horn player, Patrick Martin,
said. “The Midwest trip taught me that if you work hard to reach your goals
you can achieve them.”

For many students, the trip was the first time they had traveled outside of
Texas or on an airplane. Junior Francis Sampson, who plays the baritone sax,
described the trip as, “an absolutely surreal experience, getting to spend
quality time with my band family, getting to go visit Chicago in a big way,
and playing amazing music with the people I love in front of people who
love music… dream come true.”

For the North Shore Senior High School (NSSHS) administrative staff, providing
the necessary support to the students was a pleasure. Dr Joe Coleman,
principal at NSSHS, was honored to receive many compliments
on the performance, and was most impressed by a letter he received weeks after the
conference complimenting the students on the polite and professional way they
conducted themselves.

“Going to Chicago for the Midwest Band
and Orchestra Clinic was a phenomenal
experience, but what really made it
worthwhile was the hard work we put
in prior to getting there.” Senior clarinet
player, Daniel Davila, said. “That dedication
and commitment to one another extends
beyond music and makes an ensemble like
ours a family.”

The “dream come true” experience of the Midwest Clinic not only provided
lifetime memories to the students who participated but also recognition on
an international stage for the Galena Park ISD Fine Arts Department. GPISD
is honored by the Wind Ensemble’s stellar representation.