Ram Band Update (7/5/11): Parade Wrap-Up

To all:

My sincere congratulations and appreciation to everyone for their hard work and dedication this week.  The beautiful weather during the middle of last week gave way to rain on Saturday.  Everyone accepted the challenge and put on a great performance Sunday.  Our new members stepped up to the plate and did a great job in their first week.  Congrats to everyone!  As we now look forward to the 2011 season, we know the potential within in us and where we need to grow starting in just 27 days.  That's right!  Our first pre-band camp rehearsal is Monday, Aug. 1 at 7:00PM. 

2010-2011 Ram Band Packets

Later this week, we will mail out the 2011-2012 Ram Band Packets.  Each packet will include information regarding: 2011-2012 Ram Band Calendar, Uniforms, Band Notes, Fees, Medical Forms, Band Ca mp Policies, Band Camp Permission, Code of Conduct, Parental Permission, and new for 2011, Charms.  Nearly all questions and concerns regarding rules and expectations are outlined within the packet.  Please read through everything carefully.

New for 2011-2012 - Charms Office

The Whitehall-Yearling Bands and Whitehall Instrumental Music Boosters Association are pleased to announce Charms Office.  Charms Office is an all-inclusive web resource package which is easily accessible from any web browser.  Charms includes tools for nearly every administrative and financial task encountered by the directors and WIMBA.  In addition, Charms is designed with personal security in mind.  No personal information is available without secure login.

Upon secure login, you will be able to view all current financial information including band camp, uniform, and other outstanding fees.  In addition, you will be able to view calendar events, volunteer for concession stand and chaperoning, upcoming events, instrument assignments, and download any misplaced handouts.

Every student will receive a personalized letter with secure login information with their band camp packet next week.  Please look over the "BLU E" Charms sheet and familiarize yourself.  I will make a full presentation of the major features during the Parent/Student Meeting on Thursday, Aug. 4 @ 6:30PM.

Band Room Closed until July 25

Mrs. Fletcher, Mr. Brough, and I will be on our respective vacations over the next few weeks.  There is no need to return a school-owned instrument.  We are available via email but won't check in at school until Monday July 25th.

I hope everyone has a fun and safe July and see you later this month!

GO RAMS!!!

Mr. Herrmann

Ram Band Update (6/27/11): Everyone Loves a Parade!!!

To all:

I hope everyone has enjoyed a few restful weeks.  This week 'unofficially' begins the 2011-2012 band season!!!  There are several events on the calendar as well as some updated information for your consumption.  

First; THIS WEEK:

• Monday, June 27: WIMBA Meeting @ WYHS Band Room - 6:30PM
• Tuesday, June 28: Rehearsal @ WYHS Band Room - 7:00-8:30PM
• Wednesday, June 29: Rehearsal @ WYHS Band Room - 7:00-8:30PM
• Thursday, June 30: Rehearsal @ WYHS Band Room - 7:00-8:30PM
• Friday, July 1: Rehearsal @ WYHS Band Room - 10:30AM -12:00PM 
• Saturday, July 2: 
• Rehearsal @ WYHS Band Room - 10:30AM-12:00PM
• Leadership Academy @ WYHS Band Room - 12:00PM-3PM - Squad Leader Applicants - SEE BELOW
• Sunday, July 3:
• Instrument Pick-up @ Band Room - 11:00AM-11:45AM: Anyone who needs to pick up their instrument before the parade can do so during the time frame listed above.
• Parade Line-Up @ Across from UDF - 12:00PM - All members are to report in Summer Uniform @ Noon!
• Parade Step-Off - 1:00PM

Ram Band Summer Uniforms

Beginning this Thursday, Ram Band summer uniform shirts & shorts will be available for purchase directly through the Uniform Room.  No order form submission is necessary.  Payment in full is required at time of purchase. Band Polos: $17.50 (S-XL), $19.50 (2XL-3XL).  Band Shorts: $15.00 (S-3XL).  Cash, Checks, or Money Orders are accepted and made payable to: WIMBA.

Schmidt's Update

Thank you to everyone who sent an email volunteering to work the Schmidt's booth this summer at several events.  We have two dates left which require more folks.  The dates below should be filled by Adult Volunteers ONLY.  (Both dates have band conflicts during our PreCamp and Band Camp schedule).  If any parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc. are available to work; all earned money will go directly into your selected student's band account.  

Ohio State Fair

Wed Aug 3

5:30p-11:30p

4 slots available

Ohio State Fair

Sun Aug 7

9:00a-2:30p

4 slots available

Please let us know if you are available and interested!!!

2011 Band Camp & PreCamp Schedule

The yearly band mailing will be sent home late next week but go ahead and mark your calendars now with the following information:

• Mon, Aug. 1 - PreCamp Rehearsal - 7:00-8:30PM
• Tues, Aug. 2 - PreCamp Rehearsal - 7:00-8:30PM
• Wed, Aug. 3 - Fall Football Program Pictures - 7:00-7:30PM; PreCamp Rehearsal - 7:30-8:30PM
• Thu, Aug. 4 - Parent/Student Meeting & Potluck - 6:30PM
• Fri, Aug. 5 - PreCamp Rehearsal - 7:00-8:30PM
• Sun, Aug. 7 - DEPART FOR BAND CAMP
• Fri, Aug. 12 - RETURN FROM BAND CAMP; Parent Preview - 3:30PM

*** STUDENTS - Make sure you were socks and shoes for all practices!!! ***

If you have any questions, let me know.  See you Tomorrow!!!

GO RAMS!!!

Mr. Herrmann

Ram Band Update (5/31/11): Updated Summer Information

To all:

I hope everyone is enjoying your summer break so far.  The recent change in the weather has been a welcome transition into our break.  Get outside and enjoy the sunshine!!  (With sunscreen of course...)  Today's email will include some updates to previous information as well as 'new' items for your consumption.

Whitehall Independence Day Celebration - July 3rd, 2011

Just before school released, I learned that my first summer schedule was not accurate.  This year's Independence Day Celebration will indeed take place on July 3rd, 2011.  This means our rehearsal and performance schedule for the annual parade has been modified.  

Please mark your calendars accordingly:

• Tuesday, June 28: Rehearsal @ WYHS Band Room - 7:00-8:30PM
• Wednesday, June 29: Rehearsal @ WYHS Band Room - 7:00-8:30PM
• Thursday, June 30: Rehearsal @ WYHS Band Room - 7:00-8:30PM
• Friday, July 1: Rehearsal @ WYHS Band Room - 10:30AM -12:00PM  (*** RED WHITE AND BOOM - Downtown ***)
• Saturday, July 2: 
• Rehearsal @ WYHS Band Room - 10:30AM-12:00PM
• Leadership Academy @ WYHS Band Room - 12:00PM-3PM - Squad Leader Applicants - SEE BELOW
• Sunday, July 3:
• Instrument Pick-up @ Band Room - 11:00AM-11:45AM: Anyone who needs to pick up their instrument before the parade can do so during the time frame listed above.
• Parade Line-Up @ Across from UDF - 12:00PM - All members are to report in Summer Uniform @ Noon!
• Parade Step-Off - 1:00PM

Ram Band Summer Uniforms

Beginning the last week of June, Ram Band summer uniform shirts & shorts will be available for purchase directly through the Uniform Room.  No order form submission is necessary.  Payment in full is mandatory at time of purchase.  Cash, Checks, or Money Orders are accepted and made payable to: WIMBA.  No changes in pricing have occurred but I will send the pricing information later this month.

Schmidt's Update

Our next scheduled Schmidt's dates are for the Creekside Jazz & Blues Festival in Gahanna (June 17-19).  We have not received the exact number of slots available yet.  Those who have emailed me already will receive first priority.  I will email you directly with that information when it is made available to us.

2011 Ram Band Squad Leader Applicants

I've received many questions regarding the "next" step in the application process.  

• Step 1 was submitting your written application (35 applicants).  
• Step 2 Mini-Interviews which will take place the week of the July 4th practices.  I will post a sign up sheet for your mini-interviews.  Each interview is 5 minutes in length.  Mr. Brough and I will ask questions related to your written application.
• Step 3 Leadership Academy
• All squad leader applicants will take part in our first Leadership Academy from noon to 3PM on Saturday, July 2nd.  Several activities will take place to teach and reinforce the Ram Band method of leadership.  Applicants who submitted their applications by May 19th are required to attend for their applications to be valid.  *** Free Lunch for all Applicants ***
• Step 4 is your Playing Audition which takes place after the parade.  
• Playing Audition Requirements:
• Woodwinds & Brass: Bb, F, Eb, Ab Major scales, Fight Song '75, Alma Mater, Star Spangled Banner (All Memorized)
• Percussion: Warm Up Sequence, Fight Song '75, Parade Cadences (All Memorized)

2011 Drumline Summer Sessions

Four sessions are being offered during May/June; all Tuesday evenings 6-8PM @ the WYHS Band Room.  Please make your best effort to make all four sessions during May/June.

May 31 - 6:00-8:00PM (TODAY)
June 7 - 6:00-8:00PM
June 14 - 6:00-8:00PM
June 21 - 6:00-8:00PM

As always, please let me know if you have any questions.  

GO RAMS!!!

Mr. Herrmann

Ram Band Update (5/15/11): 2010-11 End-of-Year Wrap Up

To all:

This email serves as the last "Ram Band Update" for the 2010-2011 school year.  We will definitely send out updates over the summer so keep checking your email!!  There are only 4 days of school left but SEVERAL items needing our attention, please read carefully.

This week in Ram Band land:

• Monday - Candy Sale Closeout - The Spring Candy Sale is officially over.  Please sell any remaining candy bars and turn in all $$$ this week.  We'll distribute copies of your sales receipts once all accounts have been credited.  

• Monday - Drumline Auditions - Auditions for the 2011 WYHS Drumline are scheduled for tomorrow, May 16th beginning at 4:00PM.   Results will be posted following the band exam on Thursday.

• Monday - WIMBA Meeting - Tomorrow @ 6:30PM
  
  
• Wednesday - WYHS Final Exams

• Thursday - WYHS Final Exams - Band Final is 12:15-1:30PM.

• SUNDAY - WYHS Graduation - Aladdin Shrine Temple - The HS Band and 8th grade band will perform for the ceremony which begins at 2PM.  Students are to report to the HS Band room @ 12 noon.  Graduation is a formal event; therefore, members of the band must dress accordingly.  Formal dress is required:  Gentlemen – dress slacks or khakis, button-down shirt, tie, and dress shoes.  Ladies – pants or dress of knee length or longer, dress shoes, and blouse.  Athletic shoes, cargo pants, jeans, shorts, and t-shirts are not acceptable. 

Schmidts Fundraiser

Schmidt's German Restaurant; a Columbus institution, has presented an opportunity for our students and their family members to work their fundraising tents throughout the Columbus area for community festivals.  Any worker (student or family member) receives an hourly rate for their time.  That rate is applied directly to their WIMBA account; in turn, towards band camp.

 

Our final schedule is not set yet; but we have requested the following events:  Columbus Arts Festival (June 3-5), Creekside Jazz & Blues Festival-Gahanna (June 17-19), Red-White-Boom (July 1), Dublin Car Show (July 8-9), Good Guys Car Show (July 9-10), Jazz & Ribs Festival (July 22-24), and Ohio State Fair (July 27 - Aug 6).  

Please email me directly if you or anyone in your family is interested in working these events; all events/shifts are first come, first serve.

As always, if you have any questions, let me know.

GO RAMS!!!

Mr. Herrmann

Ram Band Update (5/3/11): Band Banquet, Drumline Auditions, & Graduation

To all:

Just a short email this week with a few reminders:

Band Banquet - Next Tuesday - 6:30PM - WYHS Auxiliary Gym

Next Tuesday evening is our annual Spring Awards Banquet for Concert, Symphonic, and Stage Band.  We will honor our accomplishments this year and wish our graduating seniors the very best in their next steps towards the future.  Remember, this is a "dessert" banquet.  We ask all families to bring a dessert to share with everyone.  

2011 Drumline Clinics & Auditions

All 8th grade percussionist and members of the 2010 Drumline have received this year's audition packet and clinic schedule.  This year's clinics are optional but HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for all returning members.  Clinics will be held: Tuesday - May 3, Thursday - May 5, Tuesday May 10, and Thursday May 12.  All clinic times are 3:15-4:30. 

Auditions are scheduled for Monday May 16 beginning at 4:00PM.  

Graduation - Sunday May 22 - Aladdin Shrine Temple

The HS Band and 8th grade band will perform for the ceremony which begins at 2PM.  Students are to report to the HS Band room @ 12 noon.  Graduation is a formal event; therefore, members of the band must dress accordingly.  Formal dress is required:  Gentlemen – dress slacks or khakis, button-down shirt, tie, and dress shoes.  Ladies – pants or dress of knee length or longer, dress shoes, and blouse.  Athletic shoes, cargo pants, jeans, shorts, and t-shirts are not acceptable. 

Don't forget to turn in your Coupon Books and any payments received!!!  Candy Sale will continue until next Friday, May 13.

GO RAMS!!!

Mr. Herrmann

Ram Band Update (4/27/11): Candy Sale!!!!

To all: 

Its that time again.  The 2011 Band Camp Candy Sale begins today!!!  All members of the Ramettes, Aries Guard, and Marching "Ram" Band who plan on returning and going to Band Camp have the opportunity to sell Anthony Thomas chocolate bars over the next 2.5 weeks.  

Candy will be distributed starting TODAY @ 3:00PM from the WYHS uniform room.  Each student can check out one bag of 30 bars at a time.  Each bag you pay off permits you to check out another bag.  You are financially responsible for the candy checked out.  

Each bag (30 bars) sold equals $15 toward your account.  There is no limit on selling candy bars.  Several members have completely paid for band camp selling candy.  

Payments in cash are recommended; but checks and money orders are accepted (made payable to: WIMBA).

*** SPECIAL NOTE *** - No candy is permitted to be sold during class time.  Lunches and after school ONLY.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask.

GO RAMS!!!

Mr. Herrmann

Ram Band Update (4/25/11): Kudos and Busy Weeks Ahead!

To all:

There are only 19 days of school left in the 2010-2011 academic year.  Its hard to believe everything started on July 23, 2010 with our Squad Leader meeting.  Before business, I'd like to hand out some 'kudos':

• Arts Festival/Popcorn Concert: Congratulations to all our student artists and musicians for a fantastic event on April 14th.  Its wonderful to showcase all the artistic talents of our students in one event!  

• Student Teachers: Thank you to Ms. Monasky and Mr. Slingerland for all their hard work with all our students.  They did a wonderful job working with our students 5th through 12th grade.  Both have a bright future in music education!

Band Camp 2011

As previously announced, Band Camp 2011 is scheduled for August 7-12 at Camp Willson.  Camp fees will be $230 per student.  All previous balances must be paid before any fundraising monies will be applied to this year's camp fees.  With that in mind, we have two upcoming fundraisers.  Please read below:

Fundraiser #1 - Anthony Thomas Candy Bars

Each student can sell 30 bars at a time.  For every 30 bars sold, $15 dollars goes toward their band account.  Several students have completely offset their band fees selling candy bars every Spring.  

 

Students can pick up their initial 30 bars.  Once we receive $30 for the initial bag, students can sign out another 30 bars.  The same process works for every successive bag.   There is NO limit for total number of bars sold.

 

Special Note: Candy Distribution will be through RMS (8th Grade Band) and WYHS Band Room (Ram Band Members).

Candy Bar distribution will be announced TOMORROW following tonight's WIMBA meeting.  

 

Fundraiser #2 – Schmidt's German Restaurant

 

Schmidt's German Restaurant; a Columbus institution, has presented an opportunity for our students and their family members to work their fundraising tents throughout the Columbus area for community festivals.  Any worker (student or family member) receives an hourly rate for their time.  That rate is applied directly to their WIMBA account; in turn, towards band camp.

 

Our final schedule is not set yet; but we will be requesting the following events:  Columbus Arts Festival, Creekside Jazz & Blues Festival-Gahanna, Red-White-Boom, Dublin Car Show, Good Guys Car Show, Jazz & Ribs Festival, and Ohio State Fair .  More information regarding Schmidt's will follow.

Back to business; lots to do in the next four weeks.  Verify your calendars!!!

• WIMBA Meeting - TONIGHT - 6:30PM:  We will be holding elections of officers and chairs this evening as well as planning the calendar for 2011-2012.  See you there!!!
• City of Whitehall Spring Clean Up - Saturday 4/30 - 10am-12pm: Each year, the city sponsors a community clean-up event.  Everyone meets at Whitehall Community Park and heads out to 'clean-up' the city.  Please take a couple hours out of your weekend to give back to the community!
• Spring Awards Banquet - Tuesday 5/10 - 6:30PM - Auxiliary Gym:  All "Ram" Band members and their families are invited to our Spring Awards banquet; celebrating our musical achievements throughout the year.  We will honor all classes and especially our seniors.  Several special awards will be given and a few surprises are in store!  Each family is asked to bring a dessert to share.
• Drumline Auditions:  Parker and I will communicate directly with 2010 Drumline members and current 8th grade percussionists regarding their clinics and auditions.  
• WYHS Spring Exams - May 18-19:  All WYHS students will complete their final exams Wednesday and Thursday May 18-19.  Keep on top of your studies and finish the year strong.
• WYHS Graduation - May 22 - 2:00PM - Aladdin Shrine Temple: The HS Band and 8th grade band will perform for the ceremony which begins at 2PM.  Students are to report to the HS Band room @ 12 noon.  Graduation is a formal event; therefore, members of the band must dress accordingly.  Formal dress is required:  Gentlemen – dress slacks or khakis, button-down shirt, tie, and dress shoes.  Ladies – pants or dress of knee length or longer, dress shoes, and blouse.  Athletic shoes, cargo pants, jeans, shorts, and t-shirts are not acceptable. 

Don't forget: WIMBA - TONIGHT @ 6:30PM!

Let me know if you have any questions.

GO RAMS!!!

Mr. Herrmann

Ram Band Update (4/11/11): Popcorn Concert & Upcoming Events

To all:

Its Popcorn Concert week!!  That's right.  Its hard to believe we started Ram Band on July 23 with our Squad Leader meeting and its 24 school days until the end of the year. What a whirlwind of a school year.  The next 2-3 years will be truly exciting as we depart WYHS for and return to a brand new building.  Now, back to the present...

Popcorn Concert/Arts Festival - Thursday April 14

The entire Whitehall Band program will perform our traditional "end-of-year" extravaganza.  5th grade, 6th grade, 7th grade, 8th grade, Concert Band, Symphonic Band, and Stage Band with special guests, the Rosemore Jazz Band.  This year, we have gladly combined events with the Whitehall Art Department to present an "ARTS FESTIVAL."  The Arts Festival begins @ 5:00 and the Popcorn Concert begins @ 6:30PM.  

Dress: Nice Clothes - Ladies are permitted to wear dresses, dress slacks, and blouses; dress shoes.  Gentlemen are permitted to wear dress shirt, khakis or dress slacks and dress shoes.  

Band Call: Stage Band: 5:45PM; Concert/Symphonic Bands: 6:15PM 

Warm Up: Concert Band - watch Stage Band, 5th grade, and 6th grade perform; then report to Band Room to warm up.  Symphonic - watch same plus 7th band.  Then report to Band Room to warm up -> you will meet in Choir Room for tuning.

Upcoming Events

• April 16-24: Spring Break
• May 10: Spring Band Awards Banquet
• May 18-19: WYHS Exams
• May 22: WYHS Graduation

As always, please let me know if you have any questions.

GO RAMS!!!

Mr. Herrmann

Ram Band Update (3/14/11): OMEA District Contest - THIS WEEK

To all:

First of all, this email needs to begin with a HUGE list of KUDOS and THANK YOUs for our collective efforts this past weekend hosting OMEA Large Group Choir Event:

• Kelly Sidner and all our concession volunteers for excellent work serving all our guests with awesome food.
• Bob Bailey, Ken Abshire, Dan Miller, and our parking volunteers for managing all the parking and traffic.
• Mr. Brough, Ms. Rohr, Mrs. Howard, Mrs. Pierce Stoots, Mr. Harriman, Mrs. Sippola, and Mr. 'Bill' for their great work leading our students throughout the weekend.
• Finally, and most important, our students for being AMAZING AMBASSADORS representing our school and our community.

As the directors and judges departed, all the comments we received were very positive and hopeful that we would host in the future.  In fact, several directors felt we should apply to be a site for STATE CHOIR ADJUDICATED EVENT!!!  They loved our facilities and how professional our students and parents were.  So, from me to you... THANK YOU!!!!!

Next, a HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to Ms. Rohr and the Mixed Choir for their EXCELLENT rating this past Friday.  Great Job!

Back to business..... 

OMEA Large Group Adjudicated Event - Bands - THIS FRIDAY EVENING

Each year, the Whitehall-Yearling bands participate in the OMEA Large Group Adjudicated Event.  Our collective participation in these events is very important to the musical growth of our program.  The members of the Concert and Symphonic Bands will perform three prepared pieces of music for three adjudicators and then sight-read an additional work for the fourth adjudicator.  

We will travel to Granville HS this Friday evening to perform in their Performing Arts Center.  Here are the details for Friday:

3:00PM Band Call

3:45PM Depart for Granville

4:30PM Arrive @ Granville HS & Check-In (see directions link below)

4:45PM Concert Band reports to homeroom | Symphonic Band reports to Performing Arts Center

4:50PM Concert Band departs for Warm Up

4:55PM Concert Band in Warm Up

5:00PM Symphonic Band watches Newark Concert Band & WYHS Concert Band

5:30PM CONCERT BAND PERFORMS

6:00PM Concert Band transfers to Sight Reading

6:20PM Symphonic Band reports to homeroom

6:30PM Concert Band returns to homeroom

6:35PM Symphonic band departs for Warm Up

6:40PM Symphonic Band in Warm Up

6:45PM Concert band reports to Performing Arts Center to watch Licking Valley Concert Band & WYHS Symphonic Band

7:15PM SYMPHONIC BAND PERFORMS

7:45PM Symphonic Band transfers to Sight Reading

8:15PM Symphonic Band returns to homeroom

8:20PM Concert & Symphonic pack up and report to commons for ratings and concessions

9:00PM Depart Granville HS

9:45PM Arrive @ WYHS

*** Band Members will not have time to leave school; so bring all uniform parts with you. 

 

**** WIMBA is providing a snack for after school.  Members should bring cash for concessions after our performance.

 

REMEMBER: No recording of any kind!!!  This includes photographs, video cameras, tape/digital recorders AND cell phones.  Leave the aforementioned items at home when you come to support Concert & Symphonic Band.

Directions to Granville HS: LINK HERE

This is a HUGE week for our upperclassmen taking the OGTs.  We wish them the absolute best on this important assessment of academic learning.  Do you best!!!

We hope to see you @ Granville HS this Friday evening!

GO RAMS!!!

Ram Band Update (2/27/11): Busy Weeks Ahead!

To all: 

Today's weather made me think Spring is just around the corner!  The next several weeks are very busy for everyone.  I'm covering a lot of information in this week's update, so please read carefully and check your calendars.  Here's the schedule from now until Spring Break:

February
28		WIMBA Meeting & OMEA Committee	WYHS Band Room	6:30 PM
March
3		Pre-Contest Concert (All WYHS Bands)	WYHS Auditorium	7:00 PM
5		Winter Fundraiser Community Blitz	Whitehall	9AM-12PM
8		SPECIAL REHEARSAL (Concert & Symphonic Bands)		2:00-4:00 PM
8		Parent/Teacher Conferences	WYHS	4:00-7:30 PM
10		Parent/Teacher Conferences	WYHS	4:00-7:30 PM
11		NO SCHOOL
11		OMEA Choir Contest @ WYHS (See Below)		2:30-11:00 PM
12		OMEA Choir Contest @ WYHS (See Below)		8:00-4:00 PM
18		OMEA Band Contest  (See Below)	TBA
19		OMEA Band Contest  (See Below)	TBA
29		RMS Band Concert	WYHS Auditorium	6:30 PM
April
14		Popcorn Concert (DATE CHANGE)	WYHS Auditorium	6:00 PM

Below is more detailed information for some of the items above:

Pre-Contest Concert - This Thursday March 3

The members of the Stage Band, Concert Band, and Symphonic Band will present their "Winter/Pre-Contest Concert" @ 7:00PM in the WYHS Auditorium.  Band Call is 6:00PM.  Dress: Uniforms - NO Overlays or Spats - BLACK SHOES & LONG BLACK SOCKS

Ram Band Discount Books: Community Blitz - Saturday March 5

To provide a huge boost to our fundraising efforts, we will have a Community Blitz Day Saturday March 5 (9am-12pm) for our members to go out into the community.  Teams of band members will split up with a chaperone and canvas Whitehall.  The Community Blitz Day plus a three-week fundraising window makes the potential for this fundraiser very good.

Special Rehearsal (Concert & Symphonic Bands) - Tuesday, March 8

Members of the Concert and Symphonic Bands will welcome Mr. David Shaffer, nationally-renowned band composer next Tuesday March 8 for a special rehearsal.  He has graciously offered his time and expertise to assist our students in their preparations for OMEA Large Group Adjudicated Event.  Mr. Shaffer will attend our regular in-school rehearsal and then offer his thoughts and suggestions to both bands.  Members should make arrangements to stay until 4:00PM for this special rehearsal.  

Parent/Teacher Conferences - March 8 & 10

If you would like to schedule a conference with Mr. Brough or myself, please call Mrs. Gibson in the main office (417-5100).  All request are run through the main office so they can track our conferences.

WYHS to host OMEA Large Group "Choir" Event - March 11 & 12

In just two weeks, the WYHS Music Department will host OMEA Large Group Adjudicated Event for 'Choirs'.  We are seeking as many parents, family members and friends to assist us.  If you are interested in volunteering, please come to our organizational meeting this Monday evening following the regular WIMBA meeting.  Students: We will hold a separate meeting with you to discuss your involvement and how you will contribute to a successful weekend.

OMEA Large Group Adjudicated Event - Bands

Each year, the Whitehall-Yearling bands participate in the OMEA Large Group Adjudicated Event.  Our collective participation in these events is very important to the musical growth of our program.  The members of the Concert and Symphonic Bands will perform three prepared pieces of music for three adjudicators and then sight-read an additional work for the fourth adjudicator.  

In years past, we would travel to a site within our OMEA district but hosting choir event provides a great opportunity.  So we can efficiently and successfully host the choir event as well as perform to the best of our ability; the bands will travel "out of district" to perform.

Last Item: Clearing Up Some Communication

This past Tuesday, we checked in with all WYHS band students regarding their progress on our Winter Fundraiser.  Sales have been slower than I would have hoped, so I took a moment to speak to the students about "why" we fundraise.  Some parents have contacted me with concerns and unfortunately, my message to the bands was not clear on my part.  To clear up the confusion, here were the main points:

• The "New Uniform Project" is a long-term investment of time and resources with a goal of new band uniforms by Fall 2013.  It takes years of fundraising to supply the funds needed, approx. $25,000.

• I would like our students and families to be fully invested in the Whitehall band experience.  Our ability to self-sustain shows the school district and the community how much we believe in what we do.  Band programs throughout Ohio are currently in or exploring  "Pay-to-Play" models.  We have absolutely NO plans on moving in that direction; but I would like us to mindful of the changes going on around us and thankful for our blessings.

• There may be day when WIMBA will be asked to assume more financial responsibility for the activities of the bands.  For example: many band boosters throughout Ohio currently pay for bussing.  Large scale fundraisers are the key to the success of this possible responsibility.

• Construction Update: We should be flexible and understanding as this major project moves forward.  Our end goal; the new WYHS band room will be better than what we have now.  During our transition time, we will squeeze the entire WYHS band into the RMS band room; hopefully for only 1.5 years.  We will continue our success in spite of our small confines and strained spaces.  We will still have the Marching "Ram" Band, Stage Band, Concert Band, and Symphonic Band well past our brief transition at old RMS.

Thank you again for all your continued support.  We look forward to seeing everyone tomorrow night at the WIMBA meeting and Thursday evening for the Pre-Contest Concert.

GO RAMS!!!

Mr. Herrmann

Ram Band Update (2/16/11): Congrats to our Bowlers!!!

To all:

A HUGE Congratulations to our Boys and Girls Bowling Teams for fantastic seasons.  Several of our Ram Band members were among the celebrated members of the squads!

Girls….Conference Divisional Champs with an undefeated record and MSL Champions!!!   Tiffany Smith (trumpet/tuba) MSL Bowler of the Year and 1^stteam MSL, Amber Ford (Clarinet) 1^st Team MSL, Taylor-Jo Morton (Percussion) 1^st Team MSL, Tina Santiago (Trumpet) 2^nd Team MSL, Amanda Biller 2^nd Team MSL.

 

Boys…Conference Divisional Champs, MSL 2^nd place: Nick Netotian MSL Bowler of the Year, First WYHS bowler to roll a 300, 1^st Team MSL, Nick Hillard 1^st Team MSL, Ryan Hix 2^nd Team MSL, Paul Gress (Trumpet) HM MSL, Schuyler Wright HM MSL.

Great Job to Everyone and GO RAMS!!!

Mr. Herrmann

Ram Band Update (2/15/11): Winter Fundraiser & Upcoming Events

To all:

The days are getting longer as we begin to see sunshine before and well after school.  I know I certainly welcome spring even though its several weeks away.  Yesterday commenced our Winter Fundraiser.  Here are the details:

Ram Band Discount Books

Our Winter Fundraiser began yesterday and runs until Saturday March 5.  Students are selling the "Ram Band Discount Book"; a smaller, cost-effective version of the "Entertainment Book" sold by many organizations around Columbus.  This discount book is customized with Ram Band artwork and offers discounts to local restaurants and businesses.  Most of the businesses are within 10 minutes of Whitehall-Yearling.  Our discount books have the potential to save over $250 if all the coupons are used effectively.  Plus, each book includes an access code to the Digital Savings Club Online which offers additional discounts to Columbus-Metro restaurants and businesses.

To provide a huge boost to our fundraising efforts, we will have a Community Blitz Day Saturday March 5 (9am-12pm) for our members to go out into the community.  Teams of band members will split up with a chaperone and canvas Whitehall.  The Community Blitz Day plus a three-week fundraising window makes the potential for this fundraiser very good.

Note: Similar to the Candy Sale; all books not sold should be returned or student is financially responsible.

WIMBA is providing incentives to boost sales....

• Top Seller in Each Class (Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior) earns $50 CASH!!!

• Top Selling "Team" Earns a Pizza Party: Students split up yesterday into teams.  Membership numbers in the teams are not equal.  Top Selling "Team" will be based on selling percentage (Total Sales divided by Number of Team Members).

Cost of the Ram Band Discount Book: $20  Payments are accepted in cash or checks payable to WIMBA.

If you have a fundraising-related questions, please send me an email.

Upcoming Events

• Thu Feb. 17 - OMEA Large Group Event Meeting - 6:00PM  *** ANY VOLUNTEERS WELCOME!!! ***
• Fri Feb. 18 - PEP BAND - CANCELLED
• Mon Feb. 21 - President's Day - NO SCHOOL
• Mon Feb. 28 - WIMBA Meeting
• Thu Mar. 3 - Pre-Contest Concert - 7:00PM

If you have any questions, please let me know.

GO RAMS!!!

Mr. Herrmann

WYHS Music Department: 2011 OMEA Solo & Ensemble Results

To all: 

OMEA Solo & Ensemble Events have a rating scale of 5-Poor, 4-Fair, 3-Good, 2-Excellent, and 1-Superior.  All student musicians are adjudicated using the same objective ratings scale.  This is not a competition against other musicians; but an indicator of their individual and ensemble achievement against a standard of performance.

Below is a list of results for our student musicians:

Good (3) Rating - Ensembles

Freshman Ensemble (Bianca Meade, Jordan Blevins, Kennedy Farrow, Carissa Bryant, Sarah Dagebo, Alurra Parks)

Excellent (2) Rating - Ensembles

Woodwind Trio (Karina Rubio, Samantha Gogol, & Kathryn Craig)

Freshman Flute Trio (Iris Barajas, Sarah Euman, & Madison Pharo)

Clarinet Choir (Amber Ford, Aundrea Mays, Rudy Gomez, Miranda Quesenberry, Chris Groh, Larenta Pickett, Rikkia Colon, Jordan Henson, & Kathryn Craig)

Trumpet Quartet (Tina Santiago, Michaela Jones, Breana Teed, & Ashley Coleman)

Women's Ensemble (Lindsay Galion, Becca Bryant, Christina Lee, Heather Jones, Asia Cathcart, Brittany Person)

Excellent (2) Rating - Solos

Kathryn Craig - Bass Clarinet

Jeremy Clark - Trumpet

Kyle Abshire - Snare Drum

Brittany Person  - Alto (voice)

Clara Meade - Mezzo Soprano (voice)

Hunter Coleman - Baritone (voice)

Becca Bryant - Soprano (voice)

Superior (1) Rating - Ensembles

French Horn Trio (Kim Euman, Lindsay Mays, & Tabetha Baumann)

Brass Choir (Jeremy Clark, Tina Santiago, Michaela Jones, Kim Euman, Lindsay Mays, Tabetha Baumann, Shaun Mallory, Daniel Blevins, Brian Smith)

Trombone Quartet (Shaun Mallory, Daniel Blevins, William Brown, Brian Smith

Mixed Ensemble (Clara Meade, Kayla Page, Heather Jones, Asia Cathcart, Brittany Person, Jonathan Bolyard, Johnathon Jefferson, Chris Hatfield, Hunter Coleman, William Cisneros)

Superior (1) Rating - Solos

Shaun Mallory - Trombone

Brian Smith - Tuba

Brian Smith - Euphonium

Daniel Blevins - Trombone

Tabetha Baumann - French Horn

Karina Rubio - Flute

Asia Cathcart - Alto (voice)

William Cisneros - Baritone (voice)

Each student worked very hard in preparation for this event.  Ms. Rohr, Mr. Brough and I are extremely proud of their accomplishments.

GO RAMS!!!

Mr. Herrmann

---

Christopher Herrmann

Director of Instrumental Music

Whitehall-Yearling High School

President-Elect

District XV

Ohio Music Education Association

htherrmannc@whitehallcityschools.org

http://whitehallbands.blogspot.com