Katy ISD Named Among Best Communities for Music Education
For the ninth time in the past 10 years, Katy ISD has been named among the Best Communities for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation, which recognizes schools and districts across the U.S. for their commitment and support for music education. Katy ISD is one of only 14 districts in Texas to receive this recognition for 2011.
“Our music educators constantly go above and beyond their required duties to make sure their students succeed. This recognition is a direct reflection of their commitment,” says Bob Bryant, executive director of fine arts for Katy ISD. “It is evident that our community, administration, and School Board supports and encourages quality music education for every student.”
Just recently, Katy ISD hosted its third Annual West Houston Jazz Festival. This event was first launched in 2009 by Katy ISD band directors as a way to provide a learning and performance venue to jazz students, while increasing exposure, education and entertainment to the Katy/West Houston area. Approximately 1600 patrons watched as nine Big Bands and six jazz combos from high schools and middle schools, as well as professional jazz musicians participated in the event this year. Featured concerts were performed by the Dennis Dotson Quartet and the Stan Kenton Alumni Band.
Additionally, Katy ISD students have had the chance to interact with some of the best in the business. Just recently, Norwegian-American composer Ola Gjeilo visited Taylor High School choir classes to meet and answer questions for students. Taylor HS students also recently had a chance to meet renowned composer and author, Dr. Morten Lauridsen during a presentation and student meet and greet.
“Students in Katy ISD are exposed to high-quality music programs from kindergarten through their senior year,” adds Bryant. “Studies have shown that children engaged in music and the arts often perform better academically as well. This is just another reason why we try to offer a variety of quality fine arts programs and opportunities for our students.”
Among the music programs offered to Katy ISD students include: string orchestra, full orchestra, choir vocal ensemble, marching band, concert band, jazz band and multiple individual events of solos and small ensembles.
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