The Killian Middle School Honors Band, under the direction of Trevor Ousey, is a National Winner in the 2023 Mark of Excellence National Wind Band Honors competition.
This is the seventh time the band has received this award and the second under Mr. Ousey’s leadership.
“It is a tremendous honor,” said Mr. Ousey. “The students worked extremely hard and performed beautifully.”
The Mark of Excellence is a national music competition that recognizes music programs and their ensembles for high standards in music performance. The competition is sponsored by The Foundation for Music Education, a national organization dedicated to supporting and advancing music education.
Bands are judged by nationally respected adjudicators and directors. This year’s adjudicators included Gary Green, Director of Bands at the University of Miami, and Tim Rhea, director of bands at Texas A&M University.
“To be named a national winner for the 7th time is a testament to these kids,” said Jenna Lenhard, assistant band director at Killian Middle School. “The competition gets tougher each year, and the band rises to the occasion year after year.”
“We have an immense team of support for our band program,” said Mr. Ousey. “Without the commitment of our students, staff, and families, none of this would be possible. I am so incredibly proud!”
This year, 442 bands from 40 states submitted entries to the competition, and 18 middle school bands were awarded.
“I want to thank our team, our students, our families, Mrs. Sanford, Mr. Sealy, and all of the amazing staff at Killian Middle School for supporting our students and our program,” said Mr. Ousey. “I look forward to continuing the tradition of excellence in the Killian Mustang Band!”