The Bowie High School Outdoor Performing Ensemble (JBHSOPE) placed first in the Bands of America Austin Regional. On September 28, the ensemble went head-to-head against 25 of the finest bands in Central Texas and around the state. Despite some unfortunate (but expected) rain and weather delays,
JBHSOPE came out on top with a total score of 84.50 points along with achieving Outstanding Visual Performance and Outstanding General Effect.
“Leading up to the announcement, all of us were really nervous because there were a lot of other amazing bands there,” junior Madeline McBride said. “But once we heard them announce us as first we were all so excited and relieved that all of our hard work had paid off.”
An enormous amount of training and practice went into the JBHSOPE’s critical schedule as they prepared for this big event.
“We worked for all of August with nine hours of rehearsal a day. Now, we practice at Burger after school at 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Mondays and Tuesdays and at 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursdays,” McBride said.
Intense weekly practices have proven to have paid off and become a favorite as well as a learning experience.
“I was anxious waiting to hear the results. It was rewarding to hear that our hard work paid off that day. Practices are my favorite part of band. You have to take care of business while nobody is watching before you get to dance underneath the stadium lights,” senior Jordan Sanchez said.
But some members felt a little differently about the performance and had constructive criticism as well as positive feedback.
“It was a great experience, until we got our score recaps. Many people were disappointed that finals were canceled due to rain delays because they expected another shot at the show, but didn’t get a second chance. Our scores definitely showed it. We got ninth overall in music, first place in visual (marching) and first place in general effect. Ninth place is unacceptable and completely uncharacteristic for our band,” senior Moody Schoolar said. “I am looking forward to great things at the next two competitions for our band. The future looks bright if everybody decides to get on the same level. I’m ready for everyone to live up to our uncompromising standards.”
Band instructor Stephen Howard, had positive things to say about JBHSOPE’s performance.
“I felt confident after their performance that they had done their jobs. Being rewarded for their efforts was just the icing on the cake. We rehearsed details and worked on consistency so they could be prepared to produce a great performance when it counts,” Howard said. “I always look forward to the moment in the season where the students start to “get it”. What I mean is when they finally realize what they are capable of and start to work twice as hard and twice as smart, as a team, to make their potential a reality.”
Members see the band as not only a sport but also a family and learning experience.
“My favorite part of band would definitely be the friendships. The people in band are like family to me. You get to meet so many new people who go through the same things you do. I think that the experience brings us closer together,” senior Franco Palomo said. “When I was a freshman I started the first day of school with about 250 new friends that I wouldn’t have had if it wasn’t for marching band. Now those people have become some of my best friends.”
JBHSOPE competed at the Westlake Marching Festival on Oct. 12, UIL Region Marching Contest on Oct. 22, and the BOA San Antonio Super Regional on Nov. 1st and 2nd located at the Alamodome.
“The BOA San Antonio Regional is at the Alamodome and is arguably the most difficult contest in Texas, simply because there are 50+ of the greatest bands in the state competing for only 14 finalist spots. It’s an exciting weekend,” Howard said.