Testimonials

Participation in the OHS Band Program opened doors for my daughter and gave her experiences and skills she will carry with her for the rest of her life.  Whether it was marching in the 2017 Tournament of Roses Parade, performing at the Bands of America Grand Nationals at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN, or participating in the various All-State and All-East events here in Tennessee, my daughter learned valuable life skills that will help her in any career she chooses.  In today’s ‘double-click’ instant gratification society, Band is the only class that can teach the complete combination of preparation toward a common goal through combined group work and creative musical expression.  There is athletic rigor, academic rigor, and interpersonal mastery required to create achievement in Band.  As a result, my daughter is now able to work with a wide variety of people who are focused on EVERYONE succeeding regardless of skill level, ethnicity or gender of the persons involved.  In a world striving to find harmony among its people, Band is one of the most critical academic offerings that should be supported.
 
– Glenn Olson, OHS Band Booster President (2020-2021), Vice President (2019-2020)

I’ve been a member of the Ooltewah High School Marching Band for four years now. When I first joined my freshman year I was very nervous and scared. Within a day I was greeted with open arms and new traditions. Getting to know new people before I even started high school was definitely an advantage. As a freshman entering this new strange place, I already knew people and it made the transition easier. Without a doubt, this band is my family. They have always been there for me, they support my passions and have shown me just how much fun being a part of an organization can be. Sure, it’s a lot of work but performing our show for people and getting to see how much they love what we put out there is one hundred percent worth it.

– Lynae Myers

I have been the Ooltewah High School Band Booster Vice President since 2019. My family has been with the band program for 3 years.  We value every moment of our band life because it supports our son and his passion for music. Music has been a valuable part of our sons High School life.

– Kristina Hawkins

Being a part of this program has given me many fond memories. I have watched two of my kids go through and come out with great memories and friendships. My kids have participated in both Marching Band and Symphonic Band as well as All County, All East and All State tryouts. The lessons learned through the Band has given rise to purpose and resolve as my kids plan their futures. 

– Brad Longshore

Being in band and building a love for music shaped my entire life. Not only did I meet my mentor and greatest teacher I have ever known, but I also developed a love for the sheer emotion, expression, and passion that one can elicit with music. Music has become my escape when times are difficult. It has become my rock, my safe space. And I owe that all to the Ooltewah Band. I now run all walk up songs for my daughter’s travel softball team, and just being able to see the music allow the girls a moment to get out of their heads and relax and have fun before they step in the box… Seeing how powerful it is even at such a young age… It is truly amazing. I encourage all parents to get their kids into music of some form! It will teach them means of expression, helps with pattern recognition, and has so many other amazing benefits. It changes life for the better, and I am grateful every single day for it.

– Katie Craig (2006-2010)