Fine Arts for All!

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It’s no secret that our community is passionate about fine arts, and our universal public education system reflects this value. I was proud to report during my annual State of the District address to the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce that nearly 87,000 of our students participate in fine arts.

That number—representing nearly 75 percent of our enrollment—includes award-winning choir, orchestra, band, dance, theatre arts and visual arts participants from elementary through high school. Today, however, I wanted to specifically highlight the 2,675 students throughout our 12 high schools taking part in marching band.

The Langham Creek HS marching band in action!

The Cypress Ridge HS marching band performing at halftime!

Many of these students began learning to play their instruments as early as the sixth grade. In the years since, they have honed their marching abilities to match their refined musical skills. Marching band incorporates not only music, but dance, movement and theatrical and thematic materials to make an on-field ensemble that is beyond impressive.

We know that fine arts like marching band help students perform better academically, but I have also observed the added benefits of teamwork, discipline, leadership and time management that are crucial to a young person’s total education. 

The Cypress Lakes HS percussion section making spectacular sounds!

Bridgeland HS tuba players participating in their first-ever varsity football halftime!

It’s the fall, which means it’s marching band season! I have enjoyed seeing all the schools’ routines during halftime of our football games at Cy-Fair FCU and Pridgeon stadiums, and look forward to the upcoming competition season. As we are in an even-numbered year, Class 6A bands have the opportunity to advance to UIL regional, area and state competitions. CFISD bands routinely qualify for state, where they march against the top ensembles in Texas.

Here is a look at some of the upcoming local and UIL events that comprise marching competition season:

Sept. 29 – Pridgeon Processional (Pridgeon Stadium)

Oct. 13 – Battle at the Berry (Cy-Fair FCU Stadium)

Oct. 20 – UIL Region 27 Marching Contest (Cy-Fair FCU Stadium)

Oct. 27 – UIL Area I Marching Contest (Legacy Stadium, Katy)

Nov. 5-7 – UIL State Marching Contest (Alamodome, San Antonio)

More detailed contest information will be posted on the CFISD website during the week leading up to each event. I invite you to come watch these talented students in action during the 2018 marching season and witness Opportunity for All in action.

Our fine arts programs give us a lot to cheer about in CFISD! I plan on sharing more program-specific posts throughout the school year so you can join me in cheering on the outstanding accomplishments of these students.

~ Mark Henry, Ed.D.