When the Coppell High School Band learned it was advancing to the 2016 UIL 6A State Marching Band Contest following the Area B competition on October 29th, the Coppell community immediately responded with a show of support. Notes of congratulations and good wishes began pouring in for the 370-member band as they moved into the last week of rehearsals. “We started a new tradition and set up an inspiration wall in the band hall,” said Gerry Miller, Director of Bands for CISD. “The purpose is to capture positive thoughts for our student-performers as they prepare for the state contest. They have worked so hard to get to this point and I want them to know how proud we are of them.”
CISD Administrators, including CISD Superintendent Dr. Mike Waldrip, CISD Board of Trustees President Anthony Hill, CISD Athletic Director Joe McBride, CHS Principal Mike Jasso, and CHS Head Football Coach Mike DeWitt also stopped by during band practice throughout the week to share words of wisdom. “We are really proud of the band and their accomplishments,” said Principal Jasso. “They have not only reached the state marching contest, but they have sustained the success and rich legacy of the band program through Mr. Miller’s transition and leadership.”
On Saturday, November 5th the band performed for family and friends at CHS Stadium. Their 2016 show, “Now I See” has garnered praise from spectators and judges alike for its musical and visual captions, and Saturday’s performance was no exception. The kids received a standing ovation. “The show has come a long way since August,” said Miller. “It’s been great to see its evolution. The efforts of our student-performers are reflected not only in the scores, but in the audience reaction as well.”
David Krampitz, whose daughter Jessica is a sophomore flutist, said “Every time I see the show it is almost like the first time. I am filled with pride and emotion. It has been an amazing experience and I am thrilled for my daughter and the whole band.” Jessica’s mom, Linda Krampitz, added, “We have a tremendous support system and volunteers. It all came together flawlessly. I am very excited and hoping for the best at State.”
On Sunday afternoon, November 6th, parents and family members gathered outside the band hall for a special send-off. Escorted by the Coppell police, eight chartered buses filled with Coppell Band students pulled out of the school parking lot amid the cheering and poster waving crowd. “It’s been a great week, filled with so much inspiration,” said Miller. "We are fortunate to have such a supportive district and community. Many thanks to everyone for building the momentum and sharing their Coppell pride."
The 2016 UIL 6A State Marching Band Contest will be held November 8-9 at the Alamodome in San Antonio. Coppell is scheduled to compete in the preliminary round at 8:15 p.m. on November 8. For more information, go to chsbandboosters.com.