Congratulations to the 2022-2023 Killian Middle School Honors Band for placing 7th in class CCC in the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) State Honor Band competition.
This is the second time the band has advanced to State Honor Band Finals. The band was previously named the class CC champion in 2018.
“We are beyond thrilled for the students,” said Trevor Ousey, Director of Bands at Killian Middle School. “The kids worked incredibly hard the entire year.”
The TMEA State Honor Band contest comprises of several rounds, starting with UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Contest. From there, the band advanced through the Region, Area, and State Preliminary rounds, eventually advancing to State Finals. During the process, the band was also named the Area C Champion, the first time in school history.
“It is an incredibly competitive process,” said Jenna Lenhard, assistant Director of Bands at Killian Middle School. “Hundreds of truly exceptional programs from across the state compete each year. It is an honor to be amongst such excellence.”
Earlier this year, the 53-member ensemble of 7th and 8th grade musicians performed and recorded three musical selections from a prescribed music list. The selections were challenging, all three of which from the High School level list.
“The process of recording and submitting for State Honor Band is demanding, especially for the kids,” said Mr. Ousey. “They put in hours of work, both in individual practice and band rehearsal. But the end product is remarkable. The band performs beyond their years!”
“The process was intense,” said Cate Rice, 8th grade flute member in the Honors Band, “but the end result was totally worth it.”
“The band directors truly believe in us and our potential,” said Nysa Rimmalapudi, 8th grade French Horn member. “They work so hard to make sure we are successful.”
The State Honor Band contest occurs every-other-year for band. The next time Killian is eligible will be in 2024. In the meantime, the band will continue to perform and compete in local and national festivals.
“My favorite part was the friendships I made and the memories I had along the way,” said Dresden Kosbab, 8th grade trumpet player.