12/20/15 UPDATE

We hope all JA Band families and friends have a wonderful Christmas break. Blog updates will resume after the holidays.

Winter Guard - next rehearsal is Sunday, January 3 from 2:00 - 6:00.

12/13/15 UPDATE

Thank you to the band members for a wonderful Christmas concert at the beautiful St. Andrew's Episcopal Cathedral on Thursday. Thanks also for the family members and friends who came to enjoy the performance, and to the Boosters for providing a reception after the concert.

Shorter video productions was at the concert, and will create a DVD for purchase in the JA store. We will let everyone know when it is available.

MAIS CONCERT BAND CLINIC

The following JA Band members have been selected to participate in the 2016 MAIS Concert Band Clinic in January: Michael Payne, Alexander Schott, Logan Thomas, Pier Thompson, and Wes Thomas.

This year over 140 student musicians from independent schools around the state -- the most ever --will make up the two bands for the 3-day clinic at Hinds Community College.

CORKY'S FUNDRAISER

Corky's reminders:

*Orders will be ready for pickup tomorrow,  Monday, December 14, at the band hall at 1:00 pm. Any change to the time will be communicated via group text.

*Please let Lisa know (601-613-3533) if there are any errors with your order or if you need to make arrangements for storage and a later pick-up. 

*Band students and parents are encouraged to come help unload and sort orders tomorrow, if available. Please be in the band hall at 12:15 to assist with this.

*Band students who achieved the goal of selling 5 or more meats should come claim their Bop's gift card reward from the band hall tomorrow. 

Happy Holidays from the Band Booster board -- Catherine Arnold, Ginger Thomas, Lisa Thomas, and Vicki Tirman!

WINTER GUARD

The next Winter Guard rehearsal will be after the holidays, January 3 from 2:00 - 6:00.

12/6/15 UDPATE

Please invite family and friends to join the JA Band for an evening of jazzed-up holiday music this Thursday, December 10, at the beautiful St. Andrew's Episcopal Cathedral downtown.

The concert will begin at 7:00 pm with the JA Concert Jazz Band, followed by several numbers by the Small Jazz Ensemble. There will be a reception hosted by the Band Boosters after the show.

Attire for all band members is concert black. They should be at the cathedral by 6:30, ready to perform.


The 20 members of the Jackson Academy Independent Winter Guard had a great first rehearsal on Saturday, learning drill and work for this year's competition show. The next rehearsal for Winter Guard will be in January. 

MARCHING BAND VIDEO

The video of the JA Marching Band from the MAIS State Marching Festival has been posted to YouTube: JA BAND 2015 - NATURAL WONDER.

JA BAND BOOSTERS

HOLIDAY CONCERT

We are asking all our band families to bring a favorite holiday treat to share at the reception after the Christmas concert on Thursday. Thank you!

CORKY'S

We have made an important date change to the December Corky's sale. Logan's terrific dad Chris Thomas has volunteered to go to Memphis to pick up the orders which needs to happen on his day off from work. (Thank you, Chris!!). So our dates have shifted slightly. Orders will now be due to Lisa Thomas this Tuesday, December 8. The orders will be delivered to the Band Hall mid-day on Monday, December 14. We will follow up closer to the time with logistics. In the meantime, keep up the selling! Our goal is 100% participation and 5 meats per band family between the 2 sales. Lisa is hanging a poster in the band hall so the kids can chart their progress.

For details about products available, click on this link: CORKY'S

MAIS CONCERT BAND CLINIC

The MAIS Concert Band Clinic will be January 7-9, 2016, at Hinds Community College in Raymond. All JA Band members may participate.

The clinicians this year are Juanita Proffitt, Director of Bands at Copiah-Lincoln Community College, and Dr. Marc Decker, Director of Instrumental Music and Director of Music Education at Northwestern Oklahoma State University.

Cost for the clinic will be $65, plus lodging costs if the student desires to stay overnight (approximately $45 per student per night, double occupancy).

Clinic auditions will consist of scales, a prepared piece, and sightreading. Audition results will determine which ensemble a student will be placed into as well as chair placement within the ensemble. Mr. Carter will assist any student who wishes to participate to prepare for the audition.

Here is a link to audition materials and other clinic information: MAIS State Concert Band Clinic

If your student wishes to participate in the clinic, send the $65 registration fee (payable to JA Band) by this Tuesday, December 8.

11/29/15 UPDATE

BAND BLOG BULLETS

Busy couple of weeks for the JA Band coming up:

- December 1 - JA Band will perform at the morning Chapel assembly in the PAC. This is the first time the band has been asked to perform for Chapel. The assembly is 9:45 - 10:15 am.

- December 4 - Christmas in the PAC - Band Boosters will be selling Corky's. See below how you can help!

- December 5 - First Winterguard rehearsal, 12:30 - 6:00 in the Activities Building. Best of luck to the guard for another great winter season!

- December 8 - NEW DATE! - Corky's Christmas order DEADLINE

- December 8 - Deadline to register for MAIS Concert Band Clinic -- see details below

- December 10 - Christmas Concert at St. Andrew's Episcopal Cathedral

- Monday, December 14 - NEW DATE! - Corky's Christmas order PICKUP

BAND BOOSTER NEWS

CHRISTMAS IN THE PAC

We will be selling Corky's orders at this event next Friday, December 4, from 9 am to 4pm. Last year we sold a good number of orders to shoppers. We need your help in one of two ways: (1) work a shift at our table taking down orders for any amount of time that day. (2) Providing some goodies (cookies, candy, brownies, etc. ) to help attract people to our table. Last year, Lisa had a bowl of little holiday fun-sized Snickers, and it really helped! People come over, grab a treat, chat, ask you what you're selling, and next thing you know they have happily supported the Band with a Corky's order. If you can work a shift or provide some treats, please let Lisa know 601-613-3533.

HOLIDAY CONCERT

There will be a reception following the holiday concert on Thursday, December 10 at St. Andrew's Cathedral downtown. We are asking all our band families to bring a favorite holiday treat to share at the reception. Thank you!

CORKY'S

We have made an important date change to the December Corky's sale. Logan's terrific dad Chris Thomas has volunteered to go to Memphis to pick up the orders which needs to happen on his day off from work. (Thank you, Chris!!). So our dates have shifted slightly. Orders will now be due to Lisa Thomas on Tuesday, December 8. The orders will be delivered to the Band Hall mid-day on Monday, December 14. We will follow up closer to the time with logistics. In the meantime, keep up the selling! Our goal is 100% participation and 5 meats per band family between the 2 sales. Lisa is hanging a poster in the band hall so the kids can chart their progress.

For details about products available, click on this link: CORKY'S

MAIS CONCERT BAND CLINIC

The MAIS Concert Band Clinic will be January 7-9, 2016, at Hinds Community College in Raymond. All JA Band members may participate.

The clinicians this year are Juanita Proffitt, Director of Bands at Copiah-Lincoln Community College, and Dr. Marc Decker, Director of Instrumental Music and Director of Music Education at Northwestern Oklahoma State University.

Cost for the clinic will be $65, plus lodging costs if the student desires to stay overnight (approximately $45 per student per night, double occupancy).

Clinic auditions will consist of scales, a prepared piece, and sightreading. Audition results will determine which ensemble a student will be placed into as well as chair placement within the ensemble. Mr. Carter will assist any student who wishes to participate to prepare for the audition.

Here is a link to audition materials and other clinic information: MAIS State Concert Band Clinic

If your student wishes to participate in the clinic, send the $65 registration fee (payable to JA Band) by December 8.

PHOTO GALLERY

JA alums Caroline Burford (Ole Miss) and Sarah Allen Bowman (MSU) reunite before the Egg Bowl in Starkville on Saturday:

11/22/15 UPDATE

BAND BLOG BULLETS

- December 1 - JA Band will perform at the morning Chapel assembly in the PAC. This is the first time the band has been asked to perform for Chapel. The assembly is 9:45 - 10:15 am.

- December 4 - Christmas in the PAC - Band Boosters will be selling Corky's. See below how you can help!

- December 5 - First Winterguard rehearsal, 12:30 - 6:00 in the Activities Building. Best of luck to the guard for another great winter season!

- December 7 - Corky's Christmas order deadline

- December 8 - Deadline to register for MAIS Concert Band Clinic -- see details below

- December 10 - Christmas Concert at St. Andrew's Episcopal Cathedral

- December 11 - Corky's Christmas order Pickup

- Thanks to the jazz ensemble for an energetic performance at Fondren Unwrapped on Thursday. The group received many compliments from audience members.

MISSISSIPPI ALL-STATE LIONS BAND

Congratulations to JA junior Alexander Schott for earning EIGHTH CHAIR on trombone at the Lions Band auditions on Saturday. 66 total student musicians auditioned on trombone on 11/15, and 32 earned spots at callback auditions this Saturday. Alexander moved up fourteen spots at callbacks to earn eighth chair. Well done, Alexander!

CHRISTMAS CONCERT

Spread the word to families and friends to join the JA Band for a night of jazzed-up Christmas music on December 10, 7:00 at St. Andrew's Episcopal Cathedral.

CORKY'S FUNDRAISER

Thank you for a great November sale! We sold 128 meats for a profit of $1,404. Special thanks to Frances Anne Dallaire who helped us sort the orders. Let's keep this momentum going for the December sale!

Please let Lisa Thomas know if you can assist at "Christmas in the PAC" on December 4th any time from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The JA Band will have a table at the front door to sell Corky's for Christmas during that time. Call or text Lisa at 601-613-3533 if you can work a shift or bring cookies for our table (to give to customers).

For details about products available, click on this link: CORKY'S

Don’t forget, our Christmas ORDER DEADLINE is December 7th; PICKUP in the Band Hall on December 11th.

MAIS CONCERT BAND CLINIC

The MAIS Concert Band Clinic will be January 7-9, 2016, at Hinds Community College in Raymond. All JA Band members may participate.

The clinicians this year are Juanita Proffitt, Director of Bands at Copiah-Lincoln Community College, and Dr. Marc Decker, Director of Instrumental Music and Director of Music Education at Northwestern Oklahoma State University.

Cost for the clinic will be $65, plus lodging costs if the student desires to stay overnight (approximately $45 per student per night, double occupancy).

Clinic auditions will consist of scales, a prepared piece, and sightreading. Audition results will determine which ensemble a student will be placed into as well as chair placement within the ensemble. Mr. Carter will assist any student who wishes to participate to prepare for the audition.

Here is a link to audition materials and other clinic information: MAIS State Concert Band Clinic

If your student wishes to participate in the clinic, send the $65 registration fee (payable to JA Band) by December 8.

11/15/15 UPDATE

CHRISTMAS CONCERT

Spread the word to families and friends to join the JA Band for a night of jazzed-up Christmas music on December 10, 7:00 at St. Andrew's Episcopal Cathedral.

LIONS BAND

Congratulations to JA Band member Alexander Schott for earning a spot at Mississippi Lions All State Band callback auditions on trombone. 66 student musicians from around the state auditioned on trombone. Best of luck to Alexander Saturday at callbacks.

FONDREN UNWRAPPED

Join the JA Jazz ensemble at a family-friendly evening in the Fondren district, this Thursday, November 19. Here is a link to the details:  FONDREN UNWRAPPED

The Jazz ensemble will perform Thursday from 5:00-5:45 in front of the Sneaky Beans Coffee Shop, 2914 N. State State. (Note this is a change from the timing indicated in the Tuesday Raider and on the Fondren website.)

Students performing should report to Sneaky Beans by 4:45, in black attire, with instruments.

CORKY'S FUNDRAISER

Reminder that Thanksgiving Corky's orders are due to Lisa Thomas this coming Monday, November 16 by 5:00 pm, for delivery next Friday, November 20.

On Monday, Lisa will be in the band hall at approximately 3 to collect Corky's orders. From 3:30 to 5:00, please contact Lisa Thomas at 601-613-3533 or email orders to LCPSTAT@aol.com. 

This is the 1st of two Corky's deadlines. The 2nd deadline for Christmas is Monday, December 7 for delivery on Friday, December 11. 

Our goal is for every band member to sell a total of 5 meats between the 2 sales. If you have misplaced your order form or need more, let Lisa know.

We'll be sending out another email before next Friday's delivery date regarding logistics. If anyone can help sort orders on November 20 or December 11, let us know.

For details about products available, click on this link: CORKY'S

Thank you for your support of the band's primary fundraiser, and Happy Thanksgiving to our wonderful Band families!

MAIS CONCERT BAND CLINIC

The MAIS Concert Band Clinic will be January 7-9, 2016, at Hinds Community College in Raymond. All JA Band members may participate.

The clinicians this year are Juanita Proffitt, Director of Bands at Copiah-Lincoln Community College, and Dr. Marc Decker, Director of Instrumental Music and Director of Music Education at Northwestern Oklahoma State University.

Cost for the clinic will be $65, plus lodging costs if the student desires to stay overnight (approximately $45 per student per night, double occupancy).

Clinic auditions will consist of scales, a prepared piece, and sightreading. Audition results will determine which ensemble a student will be placed into as well as chair placement within the ensemble. Mr. Carter will assist any student who wishes to participate to prepare for the audition.

Here is a link to audition materials and other clinic information: MAIS State Concert Band Clinic

If your student wishes to participate in the clinic, send the $65 registration fee (payable to JA Band) by December 8.

11/8/15 UPDATE

CHRISTMAS CONCERT

Be sure to mark your calendars and invite family and friends to the JA Band Christmas Concert at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church on December 10. There is no admission charge.

MAIS CONCERT BAND CLINIC

The MAIS Concert Band Clinic will be January 7-9, 2016, at Hinds Community College in Raymond. All JA Band members may participate.

The clinicians this year are Juanita Proffitt, Director of Bands at Copiah-Lincoln Community College, and Dr. Marc Decker, Director of Instrumental Music and Director of Music Education at Northwestern Oklahoma State University.

Cost for the clinic will be $65, plus lodging costs if the student desires to stay overnight (approximately $45 per student per night, double occupancy).

Clinic auditions will consist of scales, a prepared piece, and sightreading. Audition results will determine which ensemble a student will be placed into as well as chair placement within the ensemble. Mr. Carter will assist any student who wishes to participate to prepare for the audition.

Here is a link to audition materials and other clinic information: MAIS State Concert Band Clinic

If your student wishes to participate in the clinic, send the $65 registration fee (payable to JA Band) by December 8.

CORKY'S FUNDRAISER

Don't forget -- Thanksgiving Corky's orders are due NOVEMBER 16 to Lisa Thomas.

For details click on this link: CORKY'S.  Please support this important fundraiser!

11/1/15 UPDATE

JA BAND UPCOMING EVENTS

FOOTBALL PLAYOFF GAME at PCS FRIDAY - a carpool will be organized for drumline members who wish to attend the game to support the football team in the stands.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT - Thursday, December 10, 7:00 pm at St. Andrew's Episcopal Cathedral, 305 E. Capitol St., Jackson

Congratulations to Hannah McCowan for being named the JA Scholar/Athlete of  the Week. Here she is being recognized at the pep rally:

The band received a compliment via email from a JA teacher this week. Ebony Welch wrote:

I thoroughly enjoyed the band during the Pep Rally today. I was stunned when I saw some of the same kids playing the horns turn around and play the drums. What a tlented gorup you have!!

JA Band contributing to the Homecoming Pep Rally:

JA BAND BOOSTERS

From Booster President Catherine Arnold:

Many thanks to the parents who provided the pre-game supper for the band on October 23: Charlotte McClellan, Nancye McCowan, Kim Burns, Nikki Williams, Lisa Thomas and Catherine Arnold; and on October 30: Hope Burford, Corrie Sigler, Nikki Williams, Charlette Oswalt, Jim Schott, Karen Radosevich, and Lisa Thomas.  Lisa has done a fabulous job organizing these meals during the football season, and we thank her! 

As the marching season comes to a close, I also want to thank the many parents and siblings who volunteered on our Mat Crew under Terri Fisher's wonderful leadership! Thank you, Terri!

I would like to call everyone's attention to a JA Facilities survey that was emailed out to parents (and students too, I am told) over the past few weeks. This survey provides a great opportunity to speak up about our need for band hall renovations-- there is a specific line item about the band hall on the survey-- or any other suggestions you might have for JA's facilities. The survey doesn't take long at all to complete electroncally. If you missed it, or if it went the way of your trash folder, I would imagine the JA office could re-send it to you if you called and requested it.

CORKY'S FUNDRAISER

Lisa Thomas has been approved to put Corky's info in teachers' lounges and administration. She will ask that teachers place orders with band students or contact her.

Money and orders can be sent to the Band Hall given to Lisa.  Starting MONDAY AFTERNOON, a poster will be placed in band hall for students to track their orders! If each student will sell at least 5 meats, we can plan a FUN bowling party or similar party.

THANKSGIVING orders and money for Corky's are DUE to Lisa Thomas on November 16th. Pick up in Band Hall is scheduled for November 20th, or Lisa can arrange delivery to offices.

CHRISTMAS orders and money for Corky's are DUE to Lisa Thomas on December 7th. Pick up in Band Hall is scheduled for December 11th, or Lisa can arrange delivery to offices.

Lisa can be reached at CELL: 601-613-3533 cell; FAX ATTENTION TO LISA THOMAS: 601-856-9567; LCPSTAT@aol.com email. 

Lisa will send out a thank you and pick up reminder to all who order.

Please continue to pass around Corky's info to your office, clinic, etc. for orders. THIS is our main fundraiser for the year!  Thank you so much for your time and effort!

A reminder of items available and prices:

Spiral Sliced Glazed Ham (feeds 12-15 people, 8 lbs.) - $45

Smoked Turkey (feeds 12-15 people, 8 lbs.) - $35

Boston Butt  (feeds 10-12 people, 4.5 lbs. min.)- $30

Smoked Pork Rib Chops (4 pieces, 8 pounds) - $30

Cookbook - $20

Famous Barbeque Sauce - $3

These items are PERFECT for the holidays! GREAT for parties!

Corky’s reputation for their products is unbeatable! The above meats are smoked, wrapped, and then frozen. Orders are delivered in a Corky’s gift box with heating instructions.

10/25/15 UPDATE

MAIS STATE MARCHING FESTIVAL

All Superior JA Band -- Continuing the All-Superior tradition for the past 26 years.

From Band Booster President Catherine Arnold:

There are so many parents and siblings and friends to thank for our successful MAIS Festival on Saturday. We simply could not have done it without all these energetic volunteers who unselfishly gave several hours of their time and represented our school and our band so well. At the risk of leaving anyone out, I will just highlight Jamie Niemeyer who chaired the event and has been working behind the scenes for several weeks to bring this festival - which has many moving parts - together.  A special thank you to Sue Guindon as well for the design, layout, and ad sales for our attractive program, and for coordinating schedules and director communication.

Mr. Carter adds his thanks for everyone who came out to help. The hard work of many JA Band families provided a positive experience for the visiting bands, directors, and fans. Thank you also to the MAIS Band Division and the Jackson Academy Administration for again allowing us to host the festival.

Photos from the Festival have been posted to the online photo gallery (thanks to Charlotte McClellan): MAIS MARCHING FESTIVAL

HOMECOMING - FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30

The band will not be performing the competition show on Friday due to Homecoming Festivities. Here is the schedule for Friday:

5:00 - Dinner in Band Hall provided by Boosters
6:00 - Report to asphalt with drums

Halftime - The band will perform to accompany the Homecoming court - Attire is show uniforms (shirt and tie for horns and drums, guard in show uniforms)

All students dismissed after halftime to prepare for Homecoming Dance.

JA BAND CHRISTMAS CONCERT

The JA Band Program Christmas Concert will be Thursday, December 10, at 7:00 pm at the beautiful St. Andrew's Episcopal Cathedral, 305 E. Capitol St., Jackson. 

CORKY'S FUNDRAISER

Some updated info about the Corky's fundraiser:

Thanksgiving orders and money for Corky's are DUE to Lisa Thomas on November 16th by 9:00 a.m. Pick up in Band Hall is scheduled for November 20th.

Christmas orders and money for Corky's are DUE to Lisa Thomas on December 7th by 9:00 a.m. Pick up in Band Hall is scheduled for December 11th.

Lisa can be reached at 601-613-3533 cell; 601-856-9567 fax; LCPSTAT@aol.com email. 

She will send out a thank you and pick up reminder to all who order. 

She will be at the Corky's fundraiser table at the front gate at this Friday's football game for orders. 

Please pass around Corky's info to your office, clinic, etc. for orders. THIS is our main fundraiser for the year!  Thank you so much for your time and effort!

ALSO this will be emphasized on campus and Tuesday's Raider. Pass around to administration and teachers.  If a company or office places several orders, we will arrange for delivery!

Please share this fundraiser on social media!

10/18/15 UPDATE

CONGRATULATIONS!

Congrats to the JA Band for earning Second Place in Class A at the Bands of America Super Regional Championship. This event showcased some of the finest band programs in the country, with 64 groups competing at the Edward Jones Dome.

The band received many positive comments on their performance, both at the Dome and through social media. Mr. Carter received the following email from a band parent from a competing school:

Mr. Carter, 

In a competition where large marching bands tend to get noticed, your students are to be commended for an impressive performance. Your students exhibited both courage and talent. The show was truly enjoyable and the talent of your band and color guard was inspiring. 

Congratulations on your performance! 

Warmest regards 

Dawn Wood

Marching Band Parent, Marshall MN

JA Band at Six Flags on Sunday:

Thank you to the parents who helped on the trip. Many more photos will be posted this week to the Photo Gallery, linked in the menu bar at the top of the blog.

MAIS MARCHING FESTIVAL

The MAIS State Marching Band Festival is this Saturday at JA's Raider Field. We need more volunteers to make the event run smoothly and to provide a positive experience to the visiting groups and fans. PLEASE contact Jamie Niemeyer (JNiemeyer@sfbcic.com) to volunteer for a few hours Saturday afternoon. 

Here is the schedule of performances:

2:30 - National Anthem
2:45 - Presbyterian Christian School Color Guard
3:00 - Washington School Band
3:15 - Jackson Prep Band
3:30 - Hillcrest Christian School Band
3:45 - Copiah Academy Band
4:00 - Starkville Academy Band
4:15 - JACKSON ACADEMY BAND
4:30 - William Carey University Band in Exhibition
4:45 - Awards

SENIOR NIGHT

At the start of halftime of the game on Friday, our six Senior students will be recognized, accompanied by their parents.

All seniors should send a short paragraph about their experiences in band and their future plans to Mr. Carter by Wednesday.

JA BAND BOOSTERS

Please volunteer at the MAIS Festival on Saturday, and remember that our Corky's fundraiser continues through Thanksgiving and into the Christmas season. For further details, scroll down to last week's blog update, and contact Lisa Thomas (lcpstat@aol.com) if you have any questions.

Lisa Thomas will be at the JA Carnival on Tuesday selling Corky's. If any band students are available to stop by and give her a hand, she would appreciate it.

JA BAND 10/19-24

MONDAY, 10/19 - Students excused from school due to the late arrival home from St. Louis

There will be NO afterschool rehearsals until concert band sectionals begin in January.

FRIDAY, 10/23 - Home game vs. Pillow - SENIOR NIGHT

5:00 - Dinner provided in Band Hall by the Boosters
6:00 - Warmup
Halftime - Senior Recognition & Show performance - Parent help needed with mat

SATURDAY, 10/24 - MAIS STATE MARCHING BAND FESTIVAL

2:00 - All Students report to Band Hall
4:15 - FESTIVAL PERFORMANCE

CALENDAR UPDATE

The JA Band Christmas Concert has been rescheduled for December 10 due to a conflict. The location is TBA.

10/11/15 UPDATE

It's here - BOA WEEK!

65 bands from 15 states will descend on the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis, home of the NFL Rams, for two days of marching band excellence, performing for crowds of up to 15,000 fans. The Jackson Academy Band is honored to join them.

IMPORTANT SCHEDULE UPDATE - JA BAND 10/12-18

We have an experienced marching band consultant, Brian Stevens, coming in this week from Texas to help the band prepare for BOA. It is vital that we have all students present at all rehearsals. Please look over the following details for the week, as there are a few changes from the usual schedule.

MONDAY, 10/12 - No School, No Rehearsal

TUESDAY, 10/13 - Rehearsal 2:10 - 3:00
FULL BAND - 5:00 - 8:00 - Activities Building
NO Parent meeting - Moved to Wednesday

WEDNESDAY, 10/14 - NO Rehearsal 2:10 - 3:00, due to PSAT 
FULL BAND - 5:00 - 8:00 on the Field

7:00 - Parent meeting in the Band Hall - We ask that all band families have a representative at the meeting to go over trip details.

7:45 - All parents are welcome to come out to the stands to cheer on the band for the final runthrough of the show on the field.

Following the runthrough, it is very important that all parents who are going to St. Louis stay to practice getting the mat and props on and off the field within the BOA timing constraints.

THURSDAY, 10/15 - Rehearsal 2:10 - 4:00 

FRIDAY, 10/16 - BOA Trip Departure
6:30 am - All travelers report to the band hall 

Full trip itinerary will be distributed at the trip meeting Wednesday at 7:00.

MONDAY, 10/19 - 2:00 am (approximately) - Arrival back at JA - We will have students call with an updated ETA.

Students are excused from school on Monday due to the late arrival home. All students should talk with their teachers this week about any work they will miss Friday and Monday.

THANK YOU!

After all these years, the JA Band is finally unplugged! Many thanks to the Schott family for their generous donation of a beautiful new Yamaha portable generator. This will make warmup at events and field setup much easier.

BAND BOOSTERS

The MAIS Marching Band Festival is Saturday, October 24. We need many volunteers to help make the afternoon go smoothly and provide the visiting groups a positive experience. Please contact Jamie Niemeyer (JNiemeyer@sfbcic.com) if you can help on October 24.

If you still want to submit a program ad, you must contact Sue Guindon (sue.guindon@gmail.com) by this Monday, 10/12, to allow time to finalize the program layout.

Photos from the Groovin' in the Grove competition are available for purchase at the following link: OAK GROVE PHOTOS (click on "Other Events"). Individual photo purchases from the site are quite expensive, starting at about $30; however, there is an option to purchase a USB of ALL photos from the event for a one-time payment of $250 total. If anyone would like to contribute toward that purchase, please contact Lisa Thomas (lcpstat@aol.com). This would allow us to have all the photos to be shared on the online photo gallery and with all band families.

We are now taking CORKY'S ORDERS for ham, turkey, Boston Butt, smoked pork rib chops, cookbook, and their famous barbeque sauce for THANKSGIVING and CHRISTMAS this year.

Spiral Sliced Glazed Ham (feeds 12-15 people, 8 lbs.) - $45

Smoked Turkey (feeds 12-15 people, 8 lbs.) - $35

Boston Butt  (feeds 10-12 people, 4.5 lbs. min.)- $30

Smoked Pork Rib Chops (4 pieces, 8 pounds) - $30

Cookbook - $20

Famous Barbeque Sauce - $3

These items are PERFECT for the holidays! GREAT for parties!

Corky’s reputation for their products is unbeatable! The above meats are smoked, wrapped, and then frozen. Orders are delivered in a Corky’s gift box with heating instructions.

Each of our BAND MEMBERS has an order form, so PLEASE see them. We are asking band members to sell at least 5 meats, and we plan to have a bowling/pizza party for them or similar party. Lisa will post a poster soon in band hall for each band member to track their progress!

We will also have a fundraiser table set up at the rest of the home football games and for JA's Fall Carnival (Tuesday, October 20). We accept check or cash.

If you have contacts in a clinic, company, hospital, or office and you need hard copies to distribute for orders, please let Lisa know!

If anyone would like to place a phone or email order, please contact Lisa Thomas at 601-613-3533 or email her at LCPSTAT@aol.com

Pickup Schedule in Band Hall

Thanksgiving: November 20

Christmas: December 11

Avoid the lines during the holidays!

ST. LOUIS TRIP - SOCIAL MEDIA

Band families and friends at home can virtually join the band in St. Louis by following on social media:

JA Band Facebook page - JA BAND FACEBOOK
Twitter - @JA_Band
Instagram - jacksonacademyband

Although we are not permitted to stream competition performances from the Dome, follow @JA_Band on Periscope, and we will try to share some moments during the trip.

As with many such organizations, Bands of America is dealing with complicated copyright issues for streaming and recording video of groups' performances. Videos will not be sold at this time, and they are still determining whether live streaming will be available for the St. Louis Super Regional. If we receive any pertinent information in the coming days, we will be sure to send an email with the details.

10/4/15 UPDATE

Congratulations to the JA Band members for another successful competition.

At Oak Grove on Saturday, the band earned First Place out of 12 bands in Class A, winning captions in Music, Visual, GE, and Guard. 

Overall, out of 27 bands regardless of Class, the JA Band placed Third, with First Place in Color Guard, Second in Visual and GE, and Third in Music.

Next up competitively for the band is the BOA St. Louis Super Regional on October 17.

JA BAND BOOSTERS

Thank you to the many parents and siblings who helped at the Prep game on Friday night in different capacities: the 2 concession stands (which were hopping!!), mat crew, JA Band dinner, Prep Band dinner, and Corky's sales table. Every time I turned around there was another smiling band parent helping out! We really appreciate our band booster parents, and we couldn't do it without you.

We will need the same effort for the MAIS Festival we are hosting on October 24 which is a lot of fun. Areas where volunteers are needed are: hospitality, concessions, directing traffic, band escorts, runners, registration, and admissions gate. We are also selling ads for the program. Please contact Jamie Niemeyer to volunteer or to place an ad (JNiemeyer@sfbcic.com). The deadline for purchasing ads is October 10.

Terri Fisher has scheduled a BOA mat crew meeting for this Tuesday evening at 7:45.  We only need those who are going to BOA so we can see who we have, assign positions, and practice before we are timed in St. Louis. Let Terri know whether or not you can come to this last run-through (tjmfisher@yahoo.com).

We are now taking CORKY'S ORDERS for ham, turkey, Boston Butt, smoked pork rib chops, cookbook, and their famous barbeque sauce for THANKSGIVING and CHRISTMAS this year.

Spiral Sliced Glazed Ham (feeds 12-15 people, 8 lbs.) - $45

Smoked Turkey (feeds 12-15 people, 8 lbs.) - $35

Boston Butt  (feeds 10-12 people, 4.5 lbs. min.)- $30

Smoked Pork Rib Chops (4 pieces, 8 pounds) - $30

Cookbook - $20

Famous Barbeque Sauce - $3

These items are PERFECT for the holidays! GREAT for parties!

Corky’s reputation for their products is unbeatable! The above meats are smoked, wrapped, and then frozen. Orders are delivered in a Corky’s gift box with heating instructions.

Each of our BAND MEMBERS has an order form, so PLEASE see them. We are asking band members to sell at least 5 meats, and we plan to have a bowling/pizza party for them or similar party. Lisa will post a poster soon in band hall for each band member to track their progress!

We will also have a fundraiser table set up at the rest of the home football games and for JA's Fall Carnival (Tuesday, October 20). We accept check or cash.

If you have contacts in a clinic, company, hospital, or office and you need hard copies to distribute for orders, please let Lisa know!

If anyone would like to place a phone or email order, please contact Lisa Thomas at 601-613-3533 or email her at LCPSTAT@aol.com

Pickup Schedule in Band Hall

Thanksgiving: November 20

Christmas: December 11

Avoid the lines during the holidays!

JA BAND 10/5-9/15

MONDAY, 10/5 - Rehearsal 2:10 - 4:00

TUESDAY, 10/6 - Rehearsal 2:10 - 3:00

GUARD 5:30 - 6:15 and 6:30 - 8:00

PERCUSSION 5:30 - 8:00

HORNS - 6:30 - 8:00

ST. LOUIS PARENT MAT CREW - 7:45 - 8:00

WEDNESDAY, 10/7 - Rehearsal 2:10 - 4:00

THURSDAY, 10/8 - Rehearsal 2:10 - 4:00

FRIDAY, 10/9 - Rehearsal 2:10 - 3:00

Away Football Game @ East Rankin Academy, Pelahatchie - Drumline in the stands - Attire is Band T-shirts and jeans or shorts

NOTE: There will not be a charter bus for this game. If your student needs a ride, please coordinate with another parent or older student. Contact Catherine Arnold (arnoldsfive@gmail.com) if you need assistance with this.

6:30 - Meet at the truck at East Ranking Academy to unload drums

Postgame - Students dismissed after drums loaded

UPCOMING EVENTS

TUESDAY, 10/13 - PARENT MEETING during evening rehearsal to discuss the St. Louis trip - a representative of ALL band families is asked to attend.

WEDNESDAY, 10/14 - Extra Evening Rehearsal 

FRIDAY - SUNDAY, 10/16 - 18 - BOA St. Louis Trip

FRIDAY, 10/23 - Senior Night

SATURDAY, 10/24 - MAIS Festival @ JA

FRIDAY, 10/30 - Homecoming

9/27/15 UPDATE

CONGRATULATIONS to the GULF COAST INVITATIONAL 2015 GRAND CHAMPIONS!

It was an extremely busy weekend for the JA Band, starting with the Jazz Ensemble providing a musical welcome to Raider Night guests to campus on Thursday; a pep rally, pregame performance, and drumline spirit in the stands for the football game Friday; and a very successful first competition at Biloxi HS on Saturday.

In addition to winning every caption in their class in the morning show at the Gulf Coast Invitational, with the guard earning perfect scores in two captions, the JA Band returned to the field for their second performance at 4:45. They had their best show of the year, earning first place in Visual and GRAND CHAMPION honors with the highest overall score of all 19 groups at the event.

Thank you to all the parents who came to support the students at Hillcrest and Biloxi. Special thanks to Ginger Thomas for serving as trip coordinator and head chaperone.

The JA Band returns to competition next weekend at the Groovin' in the Grove invitational at Oak Grove HS on Saturday, October 3. See the schedule update below for timing and other information.

JA BAND BOOSTERS

From Booster President Catherine Arnold:

We need lots of parent volunteers for this week's home game against Prep. If you cannot be there, there are still ways you can support the kids, such as sending in donations. Let us know if you can help in any of the following areas:

1. Pregame Meal for our kids, Friday at 4:30. Lisa Thomas will be in touch with those who have already signed up for this.

2. Concession Stand. Frances Anne Dallaire will be running the show in the concession stand. Please text Lisa Thomas (601-613-3533) if you can work a shift. This is a great money-maker for the band, and we are grateful to the Athletic Boosters for giving us this gig! We want it to go well so they will ask us again.

3. Mat Crew - Halftime Friday and Oak Grove Saturday. Let Terri Fisher (601-572-1732) know if you can help with this. Mat crew 2015 is our best ever!

4. Hosting the Prep band during third quarter. Let Catherine Arnold (601-668-1172) know if you can help serve Papa John's or provide chilled bottled water or plates. Also, let's go out and support the Prep band during their pre-game performance.

5. All band dues and travel fees are past due unless you have made prior payment arrangements with us. Thank you to everyone who has paid in a timely manner. It is greatly appreciated! October invoices will be going out soon.

JA BAND 9/28 - 10/3

MONDAY, 9/28 - Rehearsal 2:10 - 4:00

TUESDAY, 9/29 - Rehearsal 2:10 - 3:00
GUARD 5:30 - 6:15 and 6:30 - 8:00
PERCUSSION 5:30 - 8:00
HORNS 6:30 - 8:00

WEDNESDAY, 9/30 - Rehearsal 2:10 - 4:00

THURSDAY, 10/1 - Rehearsal 2:10 - 4:00

FRIDAY, 10/2 - Rehearsal 2:10 - 3:00
HOME GAME v. PREP
4:30 - Dinner provided in the Band Hall by the Boosters
5:30 - Warmup on band lot in half uniform
Pregame - Watch Prep show performance
HALFTIME - COMPETITION SHOW - Parent help needed
Third Quarter - Reception with visiting Band


SATURDAY, 10/3 - Groovin' in the Grove Competition

9:45 am - Load Bus at JA - half uniform, bring a snack to have on the bus, because it will be a late lunch after the performance.

10:00 - Depart for Hattiesburg

11:30 - Arrive at Oak Grove HS

1:45 - PERFORMANCE - Parent help needed

2:30 - Gatti's Pizza for lunch and games

4:30 - Return to Oak Grove HS, watch performances

8:00 - Ratings

8:30 - Depart Oak Grove, fast food dinner stop

11:00 (approximate) - Arrive JA

UPCOMING EVENTS

Friday, October 9 - Drumline in the stands at East Rankin Academy game. Students will meet at the school.

Wednesday, October 14 - Extra evening rehearsal

Friday - Sunday, October 16-18 - BOA St. Louis Super Regional Trip

Friday, October 23 - Senior Night at Football game

Saturday, October 24 - MAIS Festival at JA - All band families should have received information from Jamie Niemeyer about helping at the festival and purchasing program ads. If you did not receive the information or have further questions, contact Jamie at JNiemeyer@sfbcic.com.

PHOTO GALLERY

Thank you to all the parents and students who shared photos from the weekend! Here is a sampling, and many more our posted on the band's online photo gallery at this link: FALL 2015