Saturday October 12th was a beautiful day! Conditions could not have been better. It was 70 degrees, partly cloudy, winds at 4mph, and the Warhorse Band had just experienced two previous weeks of successful contest performances – both in Fredericksburg and Jourdanton. The kids were pumped for the UIL Region 11 Marching Contest in Hondo, and at 5:15 pm they stepped off to their best performance of the 2019 season in what would become a landmark success!! For the fifth consecutive year the Warhorse Band received a First Division rating (and straight ones!)!! This was another classic win for our students – our seniors had once again experienced a 1st Division for all four years of high school, and our freshmen had experienced their first UIL success on the high school level. Our sophomores and juniors experienced building a tradition they can be proud of. Most of all, for that moment, we all experienced our young adults from Devine, Texas showing everyone what they are indeed capable of through an exciting and well executed multi-layered production.
Such a positive experience can only breed more success – and it is my goal as an educator that these learning experiences are life-long as they approach other challenges along their individual journeys even after high school.
Our judges offered many complimentary comments, such as: “Really great ensemble sound!”, “Good attention to detail in visual caption”, “You perform with energy and pride!” These are our kids they are talking about…Be proud of our Warhorse Band – and our community overall. No success happens without amazing support, and I am proud of the people of Devine for all the encouragement and support along the way. Our escort back into Devine by our 1st Responders – Fire & Police – was just another way Devine has made this another incredible experience for all!!
On behalf of our DISD Bands, Mr. Settles, Mr. Quintero, and myself – “Thank You to our administrators, community, parents, and Band Boosters”!!
Mr. Jeff Miller is currently in his tenth year serving as the Director of Bands for Devine ISD. He has a total of 27 years of teaching experience, with positions also held in McAllen ISD, Clear Creek ISD, and Kerrville ISD. The two assistant band directors include Mr. Settles, with 19 years of experience and Mr. Quintero with 7 years experience.
By Jeff Miller, Director
