Dear New Members:
We are so pleased to welcome you to the Wando band family! In just a few weeks, you will graduate middle school and will enter a new chapter in your livesÑthat wonderful, exciting, confusing, and memorable time called Òhigh school.Ó We know you are anxious and ready to begin your work at Wando High School, and we want to take this opportunity to welcome you to both the school itself and to the Wando band program.
Being a part of the Wando band will be an experience you will never forget. In its history, the Wando Band has become a major player on the national stage. Our marching band competes nationally, has held the State Marching Band title for the past four years, and our concert and jazz bands enjoy the distinction of earning straight superior ratings in every festival theyÕve attended, and are well known for being some of the finest high school ensembles in the country. The Symphonic Band performed at the prestigious Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic just two years ago. In addition to this honor, the band is the recipient of the Sudler Flag of Honor.
Though we enjoy success in competition, the Wando Band Philosophy is NOT one of competition, but rather as stated in a student leadership Mission Statement:
We believe in presenting ourselves with honor and dignity in EVERYTHING that we do. While maintaining a positive outlook, we promote focus and self-discipline, as well as respect to each individual in our family. We will raise the bar and create a steady foundation of musicianship for the future members of the Wando High School Band.
We continue to stress the competition only within ourselves, and we strive to raise the bar of our own expectations and to meet the challenges that WE set for our groups. That is infinitely much more important than trophies and medalsÑif together we put forth a product we can be proud of and give our students a rewarding, positive experience, then we have truly succeeded.
The Wando band program is challenging. It takes hard work, dedication, and commitment. It requires time and energy outside of school, and it mandates that students maintain a professional work ethic and attitude. And yet, for all the work put in to the program, the rewards are returned tenfold. Students in the band make friends that will last a lifetime. As a member, you will learn leadership skills and personal skills that will help you in whatever you choose to do in your life. You will learn to further your skills as a young musician; and experiencing the relentless, refining power of MUSIC through its uncompromising standards.
On behalf of our administration team, current parents, alumni, boosters and students, welcome to Wando!
Sincerely,
Mr. Rush Mr. McGrew Mrs. Radecke
Director of Bands Associate Director Associate Director