As the year draws to an end, and Chieftain band members reminisce about the past year, it makes sense that the one thing that will stand out in our minds, is the camaraderie amongst friends.

You see, this is not just a normal group of students that participate in any activity; it is a group of students that “demand perfection” from themselves and others while having a good time doing so.

On any given day, you can walk halls of DUHS and certainly hear the good sounds coming out of the band room, before, during and after school.

This is certainly linked to the fact that students just want to continue a level of excellence and pride in their program.

Throughout the year, our band students have had the opportunity to represent Dowagiac Union Schools in many ways.

Both of our performing groups, marching and concert band, received first division ratings at Michigan State Band And Orchestra (MSBOA) festivals.

Twenty-six students participated at Western Michigan University’s Band Day and marched the music of Michael Jackson in front of 28,000 screaming fans.

Fifteen students participated in MSBOA Solo and Ensemble and six were chosen to continue on to the state level.

Three students were selected to represent Dowagiac at the WMU Spring Conference.

Eighteen students participate daily in the Dowagiac Jazz Band, some on a second instrument.  The list could continue indefinitely on the accomplishments of our students, but one thing that is for sure is the continued dedication of all our band members.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our Dowagiac Band Boosters, community members and parents and guardians.

Without their tireless support and dedication to our program, we could not continue the level of success that we have.

This week’s column is by C.J. Brooks, DUHS band director.