Starkville High School Wind Ensemble Returns to State Band Clinic

Students of Starkville High School Wind Ensemble practicing for their upcoming performance.

News Summary

The Starkville High School Wind Ensemble is set to perform at the 86th Annual State Band Clinic in December 2024. This prestigious invitation, one of only two in five years, highlights the ensemble’s talent and hard work. In March, the band prepares for a concert honoring a late classmate, featuring performances by alumni and original compositions. Community support for their music program continues to flourish, showcasing student dedication and a rich musical heritage.

Starkville High School Wind Ensemble Makes a Grand Return to State Band Clinic

Starkville, known for its vibrant community and love for the arts, is buzzing with excitement as the Starkville High School Wind Ensemble gears up for a very special performance at the 86th Annual State Band Clinic in December 2024. This is a big deal, given that the ensemble has only been invited to this prestigious event twice in the last five years—and what a fantastic opportunity it is for our talented young musicians!

March is Music In Our Schools Month!

March has arrived, which marks the celebration of Music In Our Schools Month. It’s a time dedicated to highlighting the importance and opportunities available for students in the performing arts. At Starkville High, the Wind Ensemble has recently started preparing for a concert in May 2024 that promises to be especially poignant.

During this upcoming concert, the ensemble’s performance will be a heartfelt tribute to a beloved classmate who passed away. In addition to honoring their memory, the concert will also feature performances by SHS Band alumni, showcasing the talents that have emerged from Starkville’s music programs over the years.

A Proud Tradition

The Mississippi Bandmasters Association (MBA) plays a crucial role in the state’s music scene by annually selecting a high school band to represent Mississippi at its statewide conference. For this year’s event, the Starkville High School Wind Ensemble has proudly been chosen, marking a significant recognition of their hard work and talent. Being the featured band at the clinic will certainly shine a spotlight on these dedicated students once again.

The ensemble previously took the stage at the Bandmasters conference in 2019, and this second invitation speaks volumes about the consistent excellence of Starkville’s music program. It’s a true honor that reflects the commitment and passion these young musicians bring to their craft.

Celebrating Achievement and Community

Shawn Sullivan, the SOCSD Director of Bands, expressed immense pride in representing Starkville and commended the professionalism exhibited by the students. Meanwhile, SOCSD Superintendent Dr. Tony McGee highlighted the hard work and dedication of the students, emphasizing how these performances are a fantastic representation of the community through music.

The Yellow Jacket Band program underscores the Starkville Oktibbeha Consolidated School District’s dedication to excellence in the arts and provides fabulous opportunities for students. They can work with young composers and showcase original pieces, which gives them a unique chance to be part of the creative process.

A World Premiere to Remember

One shining star in this endeavor is Carlos Kemp, Jr. (CJ), a 2017 SHS graduate and assistant band director, whose composition titled “The Winter Holiday Extravaganza” made its world premiere at the Bandmasters concert. It was a fantastic moment for both CJ and the students, showcasing original works and the vibrant talent that flows through Starkville High’s halls.

Adding to the emotional depth of the evening, students performed “In My Father’s Eyes,” composed by Julie Giroux, which beautifully memorializes children lost in a tragic historical event. One standout performance featured Jude Raffel, a senior oboe player who left the audience in awe with a stunning vocal solo.

Honoring a Classmate Through Music

A particularly special addition to the concert is a world premiere piece titled “Be that of the Wind,” by Nathan Daughtrey. This piece was commissioned as a tribute to the late Natalie Williams, a cherished classmate who passed away in 2023. The composition itself shows a clever musical transformation of Natalie’s name into chromatic pitches, infusing her memory into each note played.

More Than Just Music

This event isn’t simply about music; it’s about the unique opportunities available for students to engage directly with composers and elevate their performances. Starkville’s band program has a rich history of excellence, boasting All-Superior ratings from the Mississippi High School Activities Association and numerous student accolades for participation in Honor Bands and Lions Band.

As the concert continued, Sullivan expressed gratitude to the diligent students for their unwavering contributions to the celebration of music. Their involvement goes beyond just performing, illustrating their multifaceted participation in various extracurricular activities within the school.

Starkville is excited to support its talented musicians, and with each performance, the Wind Ensemble continues to inspire future generations of artists and musicians.