Beech Tree News Network

Band Camp began Monday, July 18th and will continue through next Wednesday, July 25th.  Due to the high heat index, the camp has been moved indoors at the high school.  However, this has not dampened any spirits of the high school and middle school students participating. This year there is a total of 140 students marching including 25 seniors. Leading the students are Directors Jason Ausbrooks and Jordan Evans, as well as Assistant Directors, Phil Ashby, Chase Pardue, and Evan Hollowell.

Several of the students are very excited about the opportunities band will offer them in the upcoming school year.  This year the theme for the band is “This Just In”.  The theme will be featured as a historical news broadcast that highlights several monumental and major events that have occurred throughout the years.  Several seniors are looking forward to incorporating new technology into their shows because they have not had the opportunity to do so in past years.  The new technology will include voice overs, sound samples, and a large screen that will be displayed on the field to portray the historical events from “This Just In”. Aside from the new technology, the band will now utilize actors and props in their shows as well. 

Director Jason Ausbrooks stated that marching band is still the bread and butter of their shows; however, incorporating the technology, actors, and props will give them the ability to possess an even greater competitive edge than what they already have.

Another opportunity that the students are looking forward to is their invitation to march in the parade at Disney World in Florida.  All band students are encouraged to go, and there will be fundraising for this event to make it as affordable as possible for each student to be able to participate in this great experience.  This trip will take place March 29th – April 2nd.

The ability to schedule and work well with one another is critical considering that over ninety percent of band students are involved in other school activities. Butler County Band wants to thank everyone involved for their support. 

The support from the band boosters, parents, the board of education, school administrators, and the sports faculty allows for band students to participate in not only band but other activities as well.
 
Story and photos by Amber McIntosh, Beech Tree News