Spanish Springs Band

Wind Ensemble–New Music on Monday

2010-10-30T10:10:00.001-07:00

Estampie by W. Francis McBeth
Upon a New Horizon (Suite for Band) by Larry Clark
Havendance by Holsinger

Carson City - NevadaDay Competition

2010-10-30T10:04:00.000-07:00

Go Cougar Band! Best Wishes for an awesome day of competition at Carson High.

May the Wind be still, the Rain delay, and the Show go on!

New Visuals, New Dynamics, Improved marching = Best Performance to Date!

Great Rehearsal Wednesday - Carson Here We Come

2010-10-28T06:36:00.000-07:00

Cougar Band did awesome in rehearsal last night; staff too!

Thanks for hard work and good attitude.

Carson Show is Saturday....let's perform an awesome show.

Random Generator

2010-10-22T11:51:00.000-07:00

The numbers generated by this widget come from RANDOM.ORG's true random number generator.

Great Sat. Practice TODAY

2010-10-16T16:06:00.001-07:00

Wow! Great job by all today at the last Saturday Practice of 2010 marching season. With a much improved show the Cougar Band is poised to present a superior performance at the Damonte Ranch competition this coming Saturday, October 23rd.

So plan on cheering for the Cougar Band 10/23 6:30pm at DRHS stadium.

Go Cougars!

Galena Contest - Schedule

2010-10-05T17:38:00.000-07:00

The annual competition at Galena High is this Saturday, October 9th.

Schedule:

12pm - band room open
12:30 - practice in upper west parking lot
2:00 - load trailer (in upper lot) with drums, pit, tubas
- eat SACK Dinner, uniforms on (with shako/plume)
3:00 - load buses, travel to Galena
4:00 - prep: hair, uniforms, instruments, etc.
5:00 - move to warmup, tune, review
6:00 - perform
7:00 - awards
7:30 - to buses, travel to SSHS

Cougar Band - McQueen Results

2010-10-03T08:32:00.001-07:00

2nd Place Band Class AAA
2nd Place Band "Sweepstakes" (overall)
1st Place Color Gaurd Class AAA
1st Place Woodwinds Class AAA
2nd Place Percussion Class AAA
Outstanding Parent Pit Crew of all bands!

More details to be posted on www.cougarbands.org this afternoon.

Band Trailer @ Home Game

2010-10-02T00:00:00.001-07:00

The newly wrapped Band Trailer was displayed on the track during the varsity football game tonight. It looks awesome! Kids, parents, staff, ... everyone! loves the new trailer!

Thanks again to Gil, Lynn, Tom, et. al.

Band Trailer - Newly Wrapped

2010-09-30T16:03:00.001-07:00

The Cougar Band trailer has a NEW look with awesome graphics.

Thanks to Gil from Gilson Auto for the donation to make this new updated band trailer look become a reality just in time for the 2010 marching season.

Check images of trailer on the band web: www.cougarbands.org

Home Game & Competition @ McQueen

2010-09-29T21:28:00.001-07:00

Friday - call at 6pm (dressed and ready to go)
Saturday - 9am upper parking lot (eat breakfast, bring SACK LUNCH)

Performing at 2:45pm in McQueen stadium.

Band Day - Thanks to ALL

2010-09-25T20:17:00.001-07:00

Thanks to Cougar Band members, parents, staff, and boosters the annual Band Day resulted in a deposit of about $5,500!

Happy Band Director!

Band Day is HERE!

2010-09-24T18:22:00.000-07:00

Saturday - tomorrow - is the annual Band Day.

An awesome day to raise $$$$ for the Cougar Band.

Beautiful weather is predicted for this great day.

Put on a uniform in the morning and have a good time seeking donations...then eat until your stuffed on burgers and more....then back into uniform (or Cougar Band shirt) for afternoon session.

Web Page - Updated

2010-09-22T16:53:00.000-07:00

The Cougar Band web site is updated.

More to be added soon.

www.cougarbands.org

Spanish Show Field Music - Now Named

2010-09-22T16:49:00.000-07:00

The 2010 marching field show music is now officially titled "Cartas de Amor" - Love Letters (in Spanish).

After selecting a show of music with a Spanish/Latin flavor, I wanted to have a show title that communicated that "Spanish" origin.

I like the new show title. Thanks to Jerry for the suggestion.

Spain - Focus of this Week

2010-09-19T08:22:00.001-07:00

After 2 homegames, homecoming, school assembly, and a Saturday rehearsal (whew!) the Cougar Band will now focus on putting it together from TopTop to end of Spain!

Rest up, stay well.

September 11th

2010-09-11T10:22:00.000-07:00

Remember!

Cougar Band to Perform

2010-08-19T22:38:00.000-07:00

This Saturday - Aug 21 - the Cougar Band will be performing at SSHS in the Courtyard (inside school) and then family, friends, and band members will feast on BBQ and more in the SSHS Commons (cafeteria).

Starts at 1pm! - Don't miss out. Bring the whole family.

Performances will include individual sections, guard, drum line, the Spanish Show 2010, and more!

Band Camp is Awesome!

2010-08-19T10:20:00.000-07:00

Cougar Band is simply amazing this year! So much good stuff.

Plan for Saturday: Performance and BBQ at SSHS 1-4pm. Will include performances by all sections...and family will get to learn to march! Fun.

Cougar Band - keep giving it 100%.

Saturday & Monday!

2010-08-05T08:19:00.000-07:00

Saturday 12pm-2pm is the BBQ especially for new-t0-band Cougars and section leaders. However, all are welcome! Bring your family for a great couple of hours getting comfortable with food. Oh, a little marching too!

Monday starts the official Band Camp for marching season 2010. 12:30pm-8:30pm is the schedule. Bring water, hat, sunglasses, and wear good sport shoes (no skater shoes, sandals, boots, etc.). Of course, have your instrument and a great attitude. The Spanish Show is a blast!

Update to Show Music

2010-07-31T14:24:00.000-07:00

Music update posted on www.cougarbands.org - main page.
Check for parts soon!
Listen to Mp3.

Cougar Band on Facebook

2010-07-27T11:56:00.000-07:00

Check out the band on Facebook:

Spanish Springs Cougar Bands

Spanish Show Music

2010-07-27T09:50:00.001-07:00

The music is nearly finished! Parts will be available at the Cougar Bands web.

Keep enjoying your summer. Special best wishes to Cougar Band members at the annual Lake Tahoe Music Camp! Have fun!!!

Final Cut - Show Music

2010-07-16T09:41:00.000-07:00

The "Final Cut" of the Spanish Show 2010 is available at www.cougarbands.org.

All music is being modified to fit the audio cuts with improved battery and pit percussion parts, custom arrangments - including solos for trombone, tenor saxophone, and baritione!

I was pleased to get the "final" version to include the very cool low-brass groove in Estancia.

Parade on July 4th

2010-07-04T21:06:00.000-07:00

A great time was had by all performers and fans of the Cougar Band!

Graduates, new members, former members, and staff performed in celebration of the USA.

July 4th

2010-07-04T09:26:00.000-07:00

Parade in Graegle, CA - Fun for All.

God Bless America!

PARADE = July 4th!

2010-06-20T14:38:00.000-07:00

Graegle, CA has invited the Cougar Band (one of only 3 bands) to perform THIS YEAR in the JULY 4th Parade! Check the parade website for detailed schedule. Families encouraged to drive up and spend the day!

Practice is July 3rd 9am-Noon. Wear good shoes.
Parade is July 4th - schedule on www.cougarbands.org

All Welcome to perform: incoming 9th graders, graduated seniors, past and future band members! Everybody come for a great time!

No Uniforms! Easy music!

SPREAD THE WORD - Cougar Band is marching July 4th!!!!

Jazz Band Performing at Bartley Ranch

2010-06-05T09:03:00.000-07:00

Cougar Jazz performs at 3:30pm today in the Hawkins Amphitheater found in Bartley Ranch. MAP. The SSHS Principal has approved this as the official "Final Exam" for Jazz Band members. Although students are still required to attend the final 2 class sessions on June 7-8 at 7am, they will have free study time. Congrats to the Cougar Jazz Band for a great year of fun music and good times.

:-)

Orchestra Spring Concert Features BAND Members

2010-05-25T17:30:00.001-07:00

The annual Orchestra Spring Concert features many Cougar Band members that have joined the talented string players to create a full-orchestra. This group is performing music from Star Wars and Pirates of the Carribean tonight at 7pm in the SSHS Auditorium/Theater. Free Admission.

Go Cougars!

Tired and Happy

2010-05-23T22:20:00.000-07:00

Spring Tour 2010 was a total success!

Highlights include:

Performing in Disneyland
Riding the rides
Enjoying the attractions
Pool Party!
Friends

Thanks to all the many parents that made Spring Tour 2010 a great time.

Spring Tour - We R On IT!

2010-05-21T06:26:00.000-07:00

The Red Lion Hotel pool was a cauldron of wild-band-kid soup. After a long bus ride and 18' of Subway sandwiches, the pool was the perfect way to end the day.

Weird Storm = Anaheim Here We Come!

2010-05-10T17:46:00.000-07:00

The snow flurries outside my window make me really want to go to sunny Anaheim to march in Disney Parade!

Counting down: 10, 9, ....

Tour to Disneyland Fast Approaching

2010-05-06T15:36:00.000-07:00

It is not too early to start packing your bags - or setting aside the stuff you want to pack - for the Spring Tour to Disneyland. Today the hotel check was ordered, PO for Bus processed, and I wore another Mickey Mouse necktie.

Spring Tour is Almost Here!

2010-05-05T06:39:00.000-07:00

Now that it is May, the Spring Tour seems amazingly close. A daily countdown has been posted in the band room.

I am wearing a Mickey Mouse neck tie to celebrate!

:-)

Fine Arts Night - Small Groups Needed

2010-04-22T09:38:00.000-07:00

Next Thursday, April 29th, is the annual Fine Arts Night at SSHS.

Small groups (duets, trios, quartets, etc.) are needed to provide music in the halls.

Cool art by students and teachers will be on display.

Food and drink will be available.

Admission $7 per family, $2.50 per person.

Spring Break

2010-04-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

Sun burned already. 80+ on the 38th-floor pool deck. Michelle and other all-state honor players arrive in LV this evening; tomorrow rehearsals begin.

Spring Break - Enjoy Yourself

2010-04-12T11:02:00.000-07:00

Enjoy the annual spring break...when we get back the countdown to the end-of-school will begin!

Booster Meeting Tonight - Tues. 4/7

2010-04-06T15:23:00.000-07:00

Let's put the final touches on the Disneyland "Spring Tour"!

See you at SSHS Band Room at 7pm.

Back from Oregon

2010-04-05T08:32:00.000-07:00

I attended a road trip with the SSHS Drama Club to Ashland, Oregon for the annual Ashland Shakespeare Festival. I was really sick when the trip started, but have recovered much. Now the occasional cough is all that remains.

Everything will be focused on the upcoming Musical "How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying" which opens at SSHS Theater the week after Spring Break.

Congratulations to the SSHS Full-Orchestra for receiving "straight 1's" from all the judges at orchestra festival last Wednesday. Only 3 other schools received this level of superior from the judges: Galena High, McQueen High, and SHAW Middle School!!! Go Cougars! (and future Cougars!).

Full-Orchestra Amazing at Festival

2010-03-31T19:10:00.000-07:00

The performance of the Spanish Springs "Full" Orchestra at North Valleys this afternoon was simply amazing. The "Full" references the inclusion of woodwinds, brass, and percussion. SSHS was the only school to present this "symphonic" orchestra; all others were string orchestras.

The Cougar musicians made the directors and parents proud, the judges complimentary, and other orchestra directors pleased. Thanks to all that supported the Cougar Orchestra today in your thoughts and presence at the festival. I will post the video and audio of New World Symphony, Mvt. 1 in the very near future at www.cougarbands.org/video.html.

Go Cougars! Congratulations to Dr. Mariani and his wife, Dr. Mariani. ;-)

Spanish Field Music - on the Web

2010-03-30T20:15:00.000-07:00

The audio page of the Cougar Bands dot org web now includes some early samples of the music for the 2010 field show. Spanish / Latin flavor with trombone solo, percussion and trumpet features, and lots of room for pleasing the audience. Check out the music - click here.

Northern Nevada CHAMPS - Guard & Drum Line

2010-03-28T08:29:00.000-07:00

Wow! What a great day we all had on Saturday, March 27th. The Guard and Drumline from SSHS performed great shows for an enthusiastic crowd. We supported the fantastic groups from Shaw (both were awesome) and cheered for the amazing eNVision Percussion Theater.

Awards were given to the highest scoring drumline and highest scoring guard regardless of division: BOTH awards went to the Cougars from Spanish Springs High! That's right! Highest scoring Drumline and Highest Scoring Winter Guard!!! Go Cougars!

To finish with class and a bit of flare, the Cougars went to the MOVIES at Century Summit. The movie was rated Two-Thumbs-Up according to the Cougar Band members: "How To Train Your Dragon". Thanks to staff, parent boosters, and every Cougar for making Saturday 3/27 a major success for all.

Spring Concert to Feature 3 Schools!!!

2010-03-26T20:08:00.000-07:00

On Friday, May 14th in the SSHS Auditorium, the bands of Carson High and Pyramid Lake High will join the Cougar Bands for a fantastic end-of-the-year concert. The program will include:

7:00pm = Carson Jazz and Cougar Jazz playing a Gordon Goodwin set:

Count Bubba's Revenge (SSHS)
Attack of the Killer Tomatoes (Carson)
The Jazz Police (SSHS & Carson)

7:25pm = Carson Wind Ensemble (???), Cougar Bands (Heartbeat 5, Reflections of Form), Pyramid Lake Band (Trailblazers)

8:00pm = ALL THREE BANDS (MobBusters!)

Plan on attending this fun concert at SSHS, 7pm, May 14th. No Cost!

DrumLine and WinterGuard at DRHS

2010-03-26T20:04:00.001-07:00

On the afternoon of Saturday, March 27th you will have the an opportunity to enjoy the final performance of the SSHS Winter Guard and the penultimate performance of the Winter Drum Line at Damonte Ranch High School.

Come out to support the Cougars at Damonte Ranch High School. Performances begin at 4pm. There is an admission fee that supports the event.

Winter Gaurd & Drumline UPDATE

2010-03-24T11:35:00.000-07:00

After trying to put a square-peg in a round-hole, I have decided to have the Winter Guard and Drumline both perform at the Northern Nevada Championships at Damonte Ranch High School this Saturday (3/27). This is a big change for the Guard! The guard simply cannot make the trip to Northern California Championships due to transportation issues.

MOVIES: The Guard and Drumline will celebrate a successful season by going to the movies after the contest - "How to Train Your Dragon" at Century Summit theaters!

Band Festival

2010-03-24T11:34:00.000-07:00

This Thursday WIND ENSEMBLE will be leaving school at 1pm to travel to DRHS for the annual Washoe Band Festival.

Friday the SYMPHONIC BAND will do the same (time/location).

Best wishes to both groups.

Pre-Festival CONCERT - Tomorrow

2010-03-17T13:29:00.001-07:00

I am excited to host the concert tomorrow (Thurs., 3/18) at SSHS Auditorium with Dr. Alec Mariani. The concert begins "officially" at 7pm...but the Jazz Band will play "prelude" music starting at 6:35pm.

The concert includes: drumline, jazz band, symphonic band, wind ensemble, and full ORCHestra!

Admission is free, as always. See you there!

Show 3/13: FUN and $$$

2010-03-13T16:29:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all that helped with the show today (Sat., 3/13): Boosters, Drumline members, guard girls, boyfirends, staff (Laura, Greg, Mark, Jose, et. al.), band directors (5!), and parents/family. We received donations and sold snacks for a bit of profit that will go toward guard scholarships to aid our current ladies with tour expenses.

The event received many accolades from fans, coaches, and performers. Thanks to all.

Congratulations to: North Valleys, UNR, Reed, McQueen, Shaw, Mendive, Depoali, and Cougars!

Field Show 2010

2010-03-13T09:51:00.000-08:00

I have posted an update on the field show for 2010 - click here. There are links to several audio samples of ideas for the show. Possible show title: "Primaveras Espanolas". (that's Spanish Springs in Spanish) ;-)

Mr. Reynolds

Show TODAY at SSHS - Guards/Drumlines

2010-03-13T09:50:00.000-08:00

Guards and Drumlines will start arriving at SSHS gymnasiums around noon to perform between 1pm and 2:30pm.

Come help/support/cheer. Admission FREE, no judges, no trophies, just fun.

Snacks and Candy will be on sale.

Zone Concert - 340 band members!

2010-03-11T23:43:00.000-08:00

A great band concert is a good thing. 340 band students performing jazz, concert, drumline, and guard is a great thing. I had a fantastic time. Thanks to all.

University Bands at SSHS Band Room

2010-03-11T07:56:00.000-08:00

U of Montana and Northern Arizona U will have there finest bands at the SSHS Band room afterschool TODAY, 3/11.

Come to here some great music!

ZONE Concert TONIGHT!

2010-03-11T07:54:00.000-08:00

Whee! Here we go for a huge concert in the SSHS Gymnasium.

Tonight, Thursday 3/11, the 6th grade band students, Shaw bands, and SSHS Cougar Bands will all perform. Plus, bonus performances by the Cougar Drumline and Winter Guard.

6pm - ready to go in gym
6:35pm - jazz performs
7pm - concert starts
8pm - concert ends

See you there!

Congratulations!

2010-03-06T16:40:00.000-08:00

At the annual REGIONAL Solo & Ensemble Festival three Cougars were highly successful:

Michelle - Superior Flute Soloist
Eric - Superior Trombone Soloist
Quinton & Eric - Superior Trombone Duet

You three make us all proud.

Contest at Reno: Guard, Drumline

2010-03-06T16:34:00.000-08:00

Cougar Winter Guard and Cougar Drumline were both well-received at the CONTEST held at Reno High today, Saturday, March 6th. Both ensembles demonstrated excellence in technique and expression. I am proud of the success of these early performances. Contests will occur throughout the month of March for both the Winter Guard and Drumline.

Scores will be posted on the band web site: www.cougarbands.org.

Thanks to each student performer, Richard Burger - master of the trailer, and our excellent staff: Ms. Cruz, Ms. Peltier, Mr. Canfield, Ms. Centeno, Mr. Scrivner.

There is Something in the Air

2010-02-28T08:13:00.000-08:00

This morning I tipped the blinds to illuminate the living room and was pleased to see bright sunshine! Spring? A few minutes later I glanced through another window to see thick fog! Bright, but visibility at 20-feet. Not long after that there were bits of bright blue breaking through. Spring is only a few weeks away!

This has me feeling something in the air...? My mind started putting together pieces of recent events and making leaps into the future. I have recently met with potential staff members for the Fall marching season, the Band Dance - with students from many band programs, the upcoming Spring Tour (Disneyland!) all started to roll pleasantly into a theme: another exciting season of marching band is coming.

I am the first to love concert season, but the marching season holds a special potential for getting the band-juices flowing. The Cougar Marching Band has a great season ahead in 2010 for several reasons. First, there will not be another change on the directors podium. (The current seniors deserve applause for breaking-in four directors during their SSHS years: Lopez, Lewis, Bartrum, Reynolds.) Second, the marching program will be carefully planned and executed both musically and visually. Third, the student leadership and marching staff component will be highly engaged prior to the season to ensure the most productive use of time during band camp and rehearsals. Lastly, the directors hosting marching contests have agreed to use the same judging procedures (rules, number of judges, etc.) resulting in a better opportunity for success in competition.

Overall, I awoke today to find that the marching season is calling louder as each week passes and the days continue to have more minutes of sunshine. This morning was a particularly loud call to select the music, hire the staff, and seriously plan for success in Fall 2010 on the marching field!

There is something in the air: excitement for a great season of intense music, success in competition, and Cougar Pride on the marching field in Fall 2010. Spring is coming. March is a busy month with the annual Zone Concert (3/11), Pre-Festival Concert (3/18), and Concert Band Festival (3/25-26). April we begin to get serious about the Fall field show music to be presented at the Spring Concert in May...and there is the thrill of performing at Disneyland!

So here we go, cougars: Spring is here this month, a busy round of concerts is upon us in March, and the future is brighter with every passing day. Go Cougar Bands!

Rehearse Then Dance

2010-02-27T06:26:00.000-08:00

Today, Saturday, will be filled with activity for many Cougar Band members. First there is the Drumline and WinterGuard practice from 9am-3pm. The evening will be the Band Dance. Stephanie and Lynn have worked hard to get the many details worked out for this dance. With invitations to bands across northern Nevada this may be a 1st annual event if it is well attended. I am wishing a good time to be had by all that attend.

2 Hour Delay

2010-02-22T09:16:00.001-08:00

It is so nice to have a relaxed morning enjoying the winter scene and a good Americano.

Tonight - Monday - is rehearsal for Drumline and Winter Guard.

Snow Day - - for church!

2010-02-21T07:57:00.000-08:00

My pastor called to announce that church was cancelled as the parking lot can not be cleared!

I am enjoying the "day off" with quiet time at home. Looking at the snow is so peaceful.

Disney Parade - Cougar Band Approved!

2010-02-16T10:28:00.001-08:00

I got a call today from Disney's Performing Arts Department to inform me that the Cougar Band has been approved/selected to march on Main Street in Disneyland on Friday, May 21st!

This is great news for the Cougar Band.

Flutes - Sonata Competition at UNR

2010-02-15T11:04:00.000-08:00

Congrats to Christine for playing well two difficult pieces at the annual Sierra Flute Society "Sonata Competition" held in the UNR Nightingale Hall. She did a fine job playing. All Cougars can be proud to have dedicated students seeking the best opportunities to perform. Thanks Christine! She received 4th place in the Senior division.

Busy Saturday - Tomorrow

2010-02-12T17:00:00.000-08:00

A hectic and fun day is in store for all Cougar Band members:

2:30pm - 7:00pm = Pep Band for both Girls & Boys Varsity "Last Home Games"
2:00pm = Drumline and WinterGuard practice begins

I am thrilled to have a busy Saturday featuring many SSHS Cougar Band members.

Rotary Contest - Success!

2010-02-11T17:53:00.000-08:00

Thank you to each of the six (6) students that performed at the Rotary Music Contest held this morning at Red Hawk Event Center in Wingfield Springs:

Branden $25
Kevin $25
Lauren $25
Erik $50 - third place
Quinton $100 - second place
Michelle $200!! - first place

Spring Tour UPDATE

2010-02-10T19:28:00.000-08:00

Check the Cougar Band website for new information about the tour. Letter given to every band student family ready to go! Bus SignUp posted in band room...make first payment to reserve bus seat! Disneyland Parade ---- here we come!

Full Orchestra - First Rehearsal

2010-02-09T16:45:00.000-08:00

Cougar strings and band students combined forces today under the baton of Dr. Mariani to rehearse Dvorak's New World Symphony and a great arrangment Stravinsky's Firebird.

For a first rehearsal all went well. I am excited. This will be a huge crowd pleaser for the Washoe orchestra festival.

Booster Meeting Tonight - Spring Tour

2010-02-09T16:43:00.000-08:00

Finalize the plans for spring tour (read: Disneyland trip), plan for winter guard and winter drumline, review upcoming concert season, graduation, fundraisers, and next marching season. Whew! Spring Tour gets top priority.

All invited.

Full Orchestra - First Practice

2010-02-08T20:42:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow (Tuesday) will be the first rehearsal for Full Orchestra. This will be an amazing experience for strings and wind/percussion players. Repertoire: Antonin Dvorak's "New World Symphony" - 1st movement, and the "Bercuese and Finale" from the ballet Firebird by Igor Stravinsky. Real Music for Real Musicians.

2:45pm-4:00pm Tuesday, February 9th.

Jazz Sax Duet - A-OK!

2010-02-07T07:26:00.001-08:00

I got a call late last night: Jazz Sax Duet approved and given a rating, award in the mail. What is the award? Blue? Red? - I do not know. We will wait for the school-mail to deliver it to SSHS. Then Shauna and Cayla can be happy; after being so disappointed receiving a "No Mark" rating.

The judge - who was excellent - thought that "jazz" music was not appropriate. That may be true in CA, but in NV - jazz duets, trios, etc. are A-OK!

Solo & Ensemble Festival - TOMORROW

2010-02-05T21:47:00.000-08:00

Saturday, tomorrow, many Cougars will perform at the SSHS Auditorium and Choir Room. Solos, duets, trios, quartets, quintets and larger ensembles will be presented by the Cougars and our special guests - Lancers.

Drumline + Pep Band = Friday

2010-02-03T13:58:00.000-08:00

Friday will be a busy day for the Cougar Band:

Drumline 4:30pm load trailer, carpool to Reno High, 6pm perform
Pep Band 6:00pm meet at band room, 6:30pm begin playing in Gym

Thanks for supporting the Cougar Band in all it does.

Booster Mtg. Postponed

2010-02-02T18:32:00.000-08:00

Monday Feb. Meeting Postponed!

We will meet soon...watch for update on next meeting.

Disney Itinerary being finalized ASAP. - stay tuned.

Tuxedo Fits - Looks Good, too.

2010-02-01T21:36:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all the uniform moms (Carrie, et. al.!) for your great help in getting the guys into tuxedos for concert season. It is a pleasure to have all this wonderful support for our great Cougar Band members.

Drumline to Perform!

2010-02-01T21:34:00.000-08:00

This Friday (2/5) our very own Cougar Drumline will perform at the 1st Annual PIE (percussion individual and ensemble) SHOW at Reno High. The show starts at 6pm.

The drumline music is very cool: listen to it.

Instructors Joel Scrivner and Stephany Centeno are working the battery and pit respectively. Thanks!

Field Show 2010

2010-01-30T21:30:00.000-08:00

I still have not decided on the show for Fall 2010 marching season.

However, I have really enjoyed the show featuring the music of Joseph Curiale.

Check the Cougar web site audio page for postings of more show ideas. Listen to the audio.

Rate your favorite shows.

New Music on the Way

2010-01-29T15:04:00.000-08:00

I have ordered several new pieces including the field season warm-up, a jazz band chart that features bass trombone (Quinton!), a jazz chart by Gordon Goodwin! (very hard to play), and more.

Also, material for the winter guard flags has arrived. Winter guard is working hard to get a great show together for performance in Feb/March!

All-State Auditions in Cougar Band Room

2010-01-26T17:43:00.000-08:00

Yes, band students from throughout the Washoe area and beyond will be auditioning in our very own Cougar Band room. As the northern representative for the All-State Honor Band, I get to decide the location of this important event.

After school at SSHS expect wind and percussion students from McQ, Galena, Reno, and other high schools to arrive ready to record their audition for All-State Band (and Orchestra).

District HONOR Band

2010-01-13T18:12:00.001-08:00

Wow! Cougars Rocked at the Washoe District Honor Band on Monday, January 11th at Damonte Ranch High School.

Our very own Cougar Band members received excellent reviews.

18 students were selected for the Honor Band! Go Cougar Bands!

Honor Band Auditions

2010-01-08T16:05:00.000-08:00

Washoe District HONOR BAND Auditions are Monday, Jan 11th at Damonte Ranch High School.

Many SSHS Cougar Band students have expressed an interest in auditioning! This is a great thing for the band and, ultimately, the WCSD Honor Band. More Cougars in the Honor Band is a very good thing.

Students should arrive at Damonte Ranch High by 3:30pm to register. Auditions will begin at 4pm.

Students in Winter Guard and Winter Drumline should return to SSHS after auditioning at DRHS. Winter Rehearsal is Monday 5-8pm at SSHS.

K.C. & The Sunshine Band

2010-01-07T18:38:00.000-08:00

Fun to play Pep Tunes in Jazz Band the past few days. Getting ready for home game this Friday, Jan 8th. All welcome to come and play...jazz band will be the "core" group playing some new tunes that have the word "Boogie" in the title! lol

Call time for pep band is 6pm on Friday. Play at 6:30pm. Game starts at 7pm.

Band Dance

2010-01-06T19:08:00.001-08:00

The school has approved the date of Saturday, February 27, 2010 for a 1st annual Band Dance to be held at SSHS. Stephanie will be working with parents to develop a detailed plan for this event. I expect it to be an event of great frivolity and jollity.

Spring Tour Update

2010-01-06T19:05:00.000-08:00

The school has approved the Spring Tour dates of May 20-23, 2010. A detailed letter is being prepared to inform all band families of the itinerary, cost and payments. This letter will be available by Fall semester Final Exams or the following Monday. A sub-committee has formed to continue to work on the details of the trip. All are welcome to contribute in the planning. Please contact me via email at spanishspringsband@gmail.com or through this blog.

School 2010

2010-01-04T10:16:00.000-08:00

Here comes a new year! Winter Drum Line and Winter Guard dates posted on band calendar (www.cougarbands.org).

Jan 11th is District HONOR Band auditions at Damonte Ranch High from 4-6:30pm. Students have been practicing audition music in class.

Mr. Canfield will be joining the band as an official Student Teacher in a couple of weeks. :-)

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T11:30:00.000-08:00

Staying warm, hot cocoa, family board games, stockings, good music, relaxing.

God Bless one and all.

Winter Drum Line is a Go!

2009-12-21T13:59:00.000-08:00

Following a limited push to gather names of interested Cougar Band students willing and able to be in the Cougar Winter Percussion Ensemble, I have decided to officially Go For It!

Show title: La Primavera

Show Music to be drawn from:

Stravinsky's "Rite of Spring" - you tube
Copland's "Appalachian Spring" - you tube
Vivaldi's "Spring" from The Four Seasons - you tube

Rehearsals will be Monday evenings in Jan, Feb, and March. All contests are in March. Several basketball-halftime performances will be in Feb. Instructors TBA.

Here we go Cougars, here we go!

Vacation is Here!

2009-12-18T19:51:00.000-08:00

I have fallen off the blog-wagon recently, but am glad to blog that vacation has arrived.

Much has happened with the Cougar Band recently including:

jazz band playing in the halls
Greg Canfield subbing for Mr. R (his first sub job ever!- yea!)
Winter Drum line sign-up netting 16 names - music being written over break :-)
Christmas Carols in the halls at lunch - featuring Mr. Anderson's original song
Solo & Ensemble entries - 16 entries
recording of scales and etudes onto CD during class
Percussion class performed with Choir and Orchestra (2 concerts!)
Sub-Committee formed for Spring Tour (think Disneyland)

Wow! I'm tired and happy. The Cougar Band has had a magnificent Fall. Here comes Winter.

Contest Field Show Music for 2010

2009-12-08T16:51:00.000-08:00

I have posted a few ideas for Cougar Band fans to enjoy.

Spring Tour - Sub-Committee

2009-12-08T16:49:00.000-08:00

Meeting moved to Thursday 7pm at SSHS Band Room.

I hope to get much done with regard to itinerary, meals, hotel selection, budget, and payment plan. Also, a draft of the letter to parents explaining the trip and payment schedule.

See you there.

Christmas Parade

2009-12-05T08:02:00.000-08:00

Today is a cooold day for the annual Hometowne Christmas Parade in downtown Sparks. Let's have fun! Decorate your instrument...bring your Christmas-themed hat (Santa, Elf, Reindeer, etc.)

p.s. pep band last night at game was fun....jazz band rhythm section and a horn section.

Disney Spring Tour 2010 - Committee Forming

2009-12-01T21:18:00.000-08:00

A small group of parents have formed a sub-committee of the band boosters to focus on the special topic of the Spring Tour 2010.

Join. Spread the word. Cougar Band to the Magical Kingdom in 2010.

:-)

Band Dance - ?

2009-12-01T21:17:00.000-08:00

What about a band dance at SSHS? Let's invite band kids from ALL the other high schools to a fun event hosted by the Cougar Band. A real DJ, food for sale, loud music, lights, and more. We can't lose.

OK Steph, let's make it happen.

2009 Final Booster Meeting

2009-12-01T21:15:00.001-08:00

Great meeting with dedicated, motivated parent booster. This core group is dedicated to the success of the Cougar Bands. Discussed: Sweet Jazz - a new way to go, 2010 field show contests, uniforms, budget, props, pit, and much more.

Thanks to all. Great things are in store for the Cougar Band.

Field Show 2010

2009-11-27T08:49:00.001-08:00

The band trip to Fairfield was a great experience for all the Cougar Band. It provided new insight for the design of the 2010 contest field show. I have been giving a lot of thought to the careful selection of music for next season. Recently I have enjoyed the music of Beethoven. Check out some cool Beethoven-esque field music - scroll to "Music of Beethoven" then click to listen.

The Tournament of Champions featured many fine groups playing music that was recognizable to the audience; much of it was classical music themes in powerful musical arrangements for the modern field band.

I am enjoying a day continuing to settle into our new house in Spanish Springs. Still full from yesterday! Lots of leftover turkey, etc.! Trying to find the box with Christmas lights...

California Here We Come!

2009-11-21T10:10:00.000-08:00

Right back where we started from...

Northern California CHAMPIONSHIPS are held annually at Fairfield High School - home of the Scarlet Brigade - in Fairfield, California.

The Cougar Band will finish the marching season today! Under cool, clear skies the band members will work for a couple of hours, load charter buses, travel to Fairfield, warm-up, compete, and finally watch some of the best bands in northern California. It will be a fun day of friendships.

I plan on having fun! Each band member will return home - very early in the AM (about 3am) - with the marching season behind them and many memories to carry into their lives.

Best wishes for a successful day to each Cougar Band member (and all the parents, staff, and supporters!)

Last Evening Practice in the Can!

2009-11-19T22:53:00.001-08:00

That's it! The final evening practice for the Cougar Band marching season 2009 is over, done, finished, complete, gone. Lot's of cleaning was the main focus of this week and the show will reflect this effort in a positive way at Fairfield High School on Saturday, Nov 21st - this Saturday.

As the season comes to a close the Cougar Band can rest assured that the load of work has been worth the great effort. Each performance has been better than the performance before. I am so pleased with the progress of the Cougar Band in this last week.

Now let's go to the "Tournament of Champions" at Fairfield, CA and have a blast entertaining a big crowd. :-)

New Office for Music Teachers

2009-11-15T07:55:00.001-08:00

Early on Saturday morning - I had a day-dream. My desk was moved so I could enjoy the beautiful vista of Spanish Springs valley. This prompted a major interior decorating update to the music office at SSHS. Perhaps, for the first time in many years (ever?), the furniture has been rearranged. Many old boxes and accumulated stuff was discarded. Thanks to the students that helped make this happen. :-)

Band Day - Big Bucks!

2009-11-15T07:49:00.001-08:00

Thanks to the community of Spanish Springs. Without the generous donations of the many families and individuals that supported the Cougar Band members on Saturday, Nov. 14th - Band Day - the Cougar Band would not have an additional $6,800 plus change.

I am pleased to announce a contest to guess the exact amount of change - actual coins - gathered on band day. The winning Cougar Band member will receive Movie Tickets. Good luck!

Now, on with the last two practices and final performance of the "Watches of the Night" field show at Fairfield High School (CA).

p.s. I slept early and long on Saturday night. My feet hurt! Cry baby. lol

Veterans' Day Parade

2009-11-11T13:59:00.000-08:00

A good time for the Cougar Band: 11th month, 11th day, 11th hour in Downtown Reno.

The Cougar Band marched and played to the huge crowd lining Virginia Street. Without cases, hat boxes, or pit/props the band quickly loaded and returned to SSHS well ahead of schedule.

Great job Cougars! I love to support the Veterans of the USA at this annual event.

NEW Web Address

2009-11-08T13:11:00.000-08:00

Go to www.cougarbands.org rather than "sshs"cougarband dot org. The reason for the change is a bit complicated and confusing. The main reason I sought a change was the increase in online storage space for band pictures, images, and music. The new site host allows for 1000 TIMES MORE SPACE. And for about 1/4 the cost. Weird how that works sometimes.

Please note that cougar bands is plural in the new web address. This reflects the presence of multiple ensembles at SSHS including jazz band, concert band, wind ensemble, and - of course - the Cougar Marching Band.

Pit Equipment - Arrives Tomorrow

2009-11-08T13:08:00.000-08:00

The Sound System for the Pit percussion is schedule to be delivered to SSHS on Monday - tomorrow. This equipment will allow the pit instruments to be musically balanced between each other as well as projected to a wider audience.

The sound system will also allow wind instruments to be heard through the use of individual wireless microphones.

I am excited about this addition to the Cougar Band inventory.

Veteran Parade: This Wednesday!

2009-11-08T13:02:00.001-08:00

11/11 is always Veterans' Day in the USA. The Cougar Band will proudly support our troops and vets of all wars this Wednesday at the annual Veteran Parade in downtown Reno.

This performance will be in full uniform and include all band members. Pit performers will play alternate instruments (cymbals, toys, or wind instrument - if they play one).

The parade begins at the 11th hour (of course, Google that if you don't know why). Note: the US Congress says that "Veterans' Day" is correct; attributive rather than possessive.)

NV State Band Championships

2009-11-08T12:59:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to the Cougar Band: a successful performance...by far the best of the season.

I am sincerely proud of the progress and achievement presented to the band fans at UNR on Saturday, 11/7. The "Watches of the Night" show was amazing. Great job. Thanks to the many parents that made it all work (food, props, moving equipment, chaperoning, etc.).