Page 18 - 2017-BMR-December

Reflections . . .

After the classes ended, Kyle and I took a few breaths to that I have a certain peace that passes understanding as we
try and compose ourselves. We were not prepared for that. put closure on this season. I know that God was with us
It’s been a tough few months (and more to come in the the entire time, even if the enemy tried to stand in the way.
spring) for him and me...I asked him, “Did we just miss all GOD IS GREATER.
of that? Or was it hidden underneath everything?” He said Marching Band is a funny thing. All band directors
probably a little of both. Kyle and I were so consumed this know this. Some of the best seasons competitively are not
fall just trying to climb AND move every mountain that all as deeply profound while some of the most difficult and
of this was happening underneath our noses and we didn’t challenging seasons can present some of the most beautiful
even know it. It was in that moment that we were both and rewarding outcomes. I’ve been saying to the kids that
able to release all of the burdens of the last 3 1/2 months being in marching band is sometimes like going to battle
because it was clear right then and there that every single together. You suit up with your armor and you go out and
moment was worth it. What those kids shared with us and learn what you’re made of. That we’re “in the trenches”
each other was magic. Priceless. I’m still in awe of it. And together, and that we fight the good fight not just as a team,
it will never leave me. but as a family. I think my kids really got that this year.
So, what do I take away from this? I don’t know that I More than ever before. I am so very proud of them.
can put it all into words. But after what has been some of And yes -- I know it’s “just band.” But is it? Of course,
the hardest months of my life and career, I can honestly say not. And we all know this, too. How Great Thou Art.

Joni Perez is in her eighth year as Director of Bands and fifteenth year overall at The Woodlands High School. Her responsibilities include conducting
the Wind Ensemble & Concert Band and directing The Woodlands Marching Band. Mrs. Perez earned her Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from the
University of Houston in 2005 and is in her nineteenth year of teaching in Texas. Mrs. Perez’s concert and marching ensembles have received exclusively
superior ratings from the University Interscholastic League during her time as Director. TWHS Wind Ensemble has been recognized as a National Wind
Band Honors Mark of Excellence Winner and was a featured ensemble at the 2012 Midwest International Band & Orchestra Clinic in Chicago. Under
her direction, the marching ensembles have earned four consecutive trips to the 5A/6A Texas state UIL Marching Contest, advancing to Finals in 2010,
2012, 2014 & 2016. The Woodlands High School Marching Band also competes regularly at the regional and national level in the Bands of America
marching competitions. In 2013, TWHS Band won the Bands of America Grand National Championship in Indianapolis and most recently finished as
a Finalist in the 2017 BOA Grand Nationals competition. The band has been recognized as a finalist all four times they have participated under Mrs.
Perez’s direction between 2011 & 2017. Joni Perez is a member of the Texas Music Educators Association and the Texas Bandmasters Association. She
resides with her husband, Brian Perez, of eleven years in The Woodlands, Texas.

Bandmasters Review • December 2017 16 Texas Bandmasters Association