Dear Clio Band Students, Families, & Community,
I hope you are all doing well and staying safe during these times. I know these are difficult circumstances, and truly the most difficult part is not being in the classroom with the students of Clio, making music every day. Obviously, there is some uncertainty as we move forward, but I wanted to take a second to offer at least some clarity.
MSBOA State Band Festival
I am sad to announce that MSBOA State Band & Orchestra Festival has been cancelled with no plans to reschedule. This is truly saddening news, especially for our band members who worked so hard to qualify for this event. It has been hard for me knowing that these students have poured so much time and energy into their craft, and to not have the payoff. It is okay to feel frustrated, and upset at these circumstances, but all of the students should know that your hard work did not go to waste. You are better musicians for all of the work and dedication you put forth, and I am proud of each and every Clio musician.
Supplementary Information/Materials
Hopefully your student has been keeping up with the supplementary material posted in Google Classroom. We understand that not all families have ample resources to keep up with any additional work, but please know that this work will NOT count against your student. At this point we are encouraging our musicians to continue to make music and be involved with their art. Especially during difficult times, having an outlet such as art and music can be comforting.
Follow this link to find all of our Google Classroom codes, and make sure to check daily for any posts regarding additional practice material:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dfQ18u08ppullKWNElyoNRZ_SZlLi0S7UIu0eErvqKI/
Keeping a Level Head, Staying Productive, Staying Positive
I watched this video today on how to be productive, and I think many of these tips are extremely helpful in keeping busy with all of this extra downtime. It is important to have goals for the day, and to have something that you are working towards. Take the time to do something for yourself, but also take this opportunity to grow and learn in ways that you haven't before!
MMB 2020
Leadership applications open tomorrow (3/25), they will be posted on Classroom, Facebook, and Instagram.
Also, we will have our informational meeting via LIVESTREAM on April 8th at 5PM EST, the event information is linked below:
https://www.facebook.com/events/236693217468320/
Final Thoughts
Please know that your character is not defined by the things that happen to you, but how to react to them. Seniors, please know that I am thinking of you everyday. It is normal to be disappointed, confused, upset, but you will be better people on the other side if you choose to stay positive. This program has been built on a foundation of a single concept - family. Lean on each other during these hard times, and I cannot wait for the opportunity to make more music together soon.
If you need anything, please know that my door (or in this case, my email), is always open.
Musically,
William J. Mufarreh