The Killian Middle School Honors Band has earned the Sweepstakes award at UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Evaluation in return to live competition. Under the direction of Trevor Ousey, the band earned unanimous Superior ratings from all judges for both the stage and sight-reading portions of the contest.
“It was an incredible experience,” said Mr. Ousey. “The kids were incredible the entire evening.”
This marks the 15th consecutive Sweepstakes award for Honors Band. To earn a UIL Sweepstakes award, a Division 1, or Superior rating, must be awarded on stage and in sight-reading.
“It has been awesome watching the band grow and improve this year,” said Jenna Lenhard, assistant band director at Killian. “Mr. Ousey really knows how to get the kids to achieve at a high level.”
“I am thrilled to be a part of this amazing program,” said Ousey. “If this was like playing the lottery, then I have won the jackpot!”
The Killian Band would like to thank the Hebron high school band staff led by Andy Sealy, private lesson teachers, Amanda Drinkwater, Director of Fine Arts for Lewisville ISD, and Dr. Tina Krol, principal of Killian Middle School, for their continued support.
“We also had a lot of tremendous clinicians and mentors along the way,” added Ousey. “I want to personally thank John Benzer, Melodianne Mallow, and Marty Nelson, who continue to work with the students in our pursuit of excellence.”
The Killian Honors Band will finish the year with auditions, a solo contest, and spring performances including the North Texas Festival of Distinction in April.