Last week both groups recorded a concert for entry in the FWISD Band and Choir Festivals 2021. This concert included prepared pieces that we have been practicing, as well as the sightreading experience (Where we briefly rehearse with strict rules and perform music without ever practicing, playing, or seeing it before!). 

As we are all aware, this year has been a challenging one - but it has been especially hard on the performing arts. We have had major restrictions on rehearsals and performances, not to mention only a small percentage of students who are coming to school. Despite that - the students have been working incredibly hard, and the fact that they have put these programs together at all is amazing. 

Band - https://youtu.be/-z-vQ-RLp_8 

1. Arabian Dances by Roland Barrett
2. Our Kingsland Spring by Samuel Hazo
3. March of the Minions by David Gorham

Choir - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_QTbSrYy8SY

1. Homeward Bound arranged by Althouse
2. Jambo arranged by Narverud

If you missed it -- just click the picture and watch our youtube link.

This past week the Western Hills Band hosted the FWISD Virtual District Band Contest! This is a music competition where students from around the district prepare college-level etudes and perform for judges for the chance to earn a spot in the Fort Worth All-District Honor Band. Normally we host this contest in person and have many students that participate. This year was quite different of course, but we still had three students that practiced, rehearsed, and auditioned - and I am happy to announce that all three students made the band! If you have any of these guys in class, please congratulate them on a job well done!

Ja'Kedrick and Foy will be continuing their auditions in Round 2 of the Region 5 Band auditions, competing against students from Fort Worth, Mansfield, Arlington, and Midlothian.

For the past 18 years, the Western Hills High School JROTC unit, Cougar Band, Benbrook Fire Department, Benbrook Police Department, and Veterans have come together to perform an amazing tribute to honor the lives lost on 9/11/01.  A proclamation was read, speeches were given, our flag was lowered to half-staff, and echo TAPs were played.

This year was different.

Col Malesky still lowered our flag to half-staff solemnly and saluted this fine Cloth of our freedom. While in the neighborhood, for the fourth straight year, Jonathan Wandersee and Band Director Meggan Hinds played echo Taps in honor of those that lost their lives 19 years ago.

Jonathan Wandersee is a Senior and the son of a Veteran.