The Fix

Some talk continued today about why we didn't make state finals and what happened. Here is what can be done to fix it. We need to get better. It is just that simple and plain. If we were in the position to be in the top third of the bands, we would not have to worry about a judge giving us problems. Let's say we were in line to finish 3rd in prelims but a judge had a problem with something we were doing. That judge might push our score down to say 6th but we would be able to get back those points in finals. When you are in the middle third of bands, a low score can keep you out of finals. I was shocked by the amount of students that left their instruments in the band room today. I can guarantee no practicing can happen without an instrument. Band must become something important before we can take the next step of success. Until then it is just talk. Band does not have to be the only thing a student does, but it does need to be a priority. I don't really know how else to put it. I will continue to work for a better band at Dutch Fork but the real successes can only happen when we all work together. Please also remember that as part of each student's grade, instruments are required to go home daily. I do check and grading will be more strict now that marching season is over.