Lakeview Grads Achieve Success with the DGS Marching Mustangs

Cocgratulations to the Marching Mustangs on a terrific season.

As a participant in the instrumental music program in District 66, I would like to share the success of our students not only for their current accomplishments but also for those they receive once they leave Lakeview.

We are lucky to live in a community where we have a strong music program at all levels and that includes Downers South High School.  This past weekend I had the opportunity to travel to the University of Illinois, to watch the DGS Marching Mustangs participate in the Illini Marching Band Championships.  Forty-seven bands from around the state competed in the competition.  Of the 126 members in the Marching Mustangs over 1/3 of the students are former district 66 band students. 

Below is a link to the DGS music blackboard page with a note from Mr. Glenn Williams, Fine Arts Dept. Chair at DGS and Band Director.  Please take a few minutes to read his account of the event and share the video with your children.  It is a culmination of a lot of hard work and dedication by these young musicians.  Maybe someday your child will be a part of this outstanding organization.  I am proud to see many of my former students involved and making such a significant contribution to the success of this group.  I am also proud to say that both of my sons participate in this group and are thrilled to be a part of it and it's success.  Good Luck to the Marching Mustangs as they prepare to participate in the ISU State Invitational Marching Band Contest this coming weekend where they will compete against some of the top bands across the state of Illinois.   Enjoy the video!!

To view the link press ctrl & click the link.  For a better view, watch the video in full screen.

 illini Marching Band Championships

Gaudete Brass visits Lakeview

This week the Wind Ensemble students had the pleasure of working with and hearing the Gaudete Brass Quintet from Chicago.  The Quintet is made up of 2 trumpets, 1 Trombone, 1 French Horn, and 1 Tuba.  It is a collection of outstanding musicians who make their living as performers and teachers.  


The Gaudete Brass were here to rehearse with the Wind Ensemble in preparation for a performance which will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 15 at 7:00pm at DGS.  The performance will feature the Eisenhower JHS Band, The Lakeview Wind Ensemble, and the DGS Wind Ensemble.  Each of the groups will be performing a selection with the Brass Ensemble.  


Our rehearsal went very well and it demonstrated to the students how hard we will have to work to sound as good as the pros.  We look forward to another rehearsal with them in a couple of weeks to prepare for this performance.  


For more information on the Gaudete Brass Quintet go to GAUDETEBRASS.com