With the introduction of a new year comes the debut of a new musical director.  Andrew Jackson, new band supervisor, enters with many goals and hopes for the program. “I want the band to continue developing into a musical ensemble and create a family of people who enjoy each other.  And make great music!”

   Jackson has devoted his life to music.  He started at a young age, and continued to play in the St. Claire High school band.  In college, he played with the Truman State Band.  He’s been in multiple ensembles, including the St. Louis Symphony, where 300 people tried out for one spot, the Quincy Symphony, and the Marine Band where he placed in the top three of 270 people. He also received an honorable mention at the Tanglewood Festival. He is capable of playing any standard band instrument, but he devotes most of his time to the piano and the trumpet.

   Jackson enters with four previous years of teaching experience including schools such as Anna, Ill.; Winsfield and Sullivan.. His musical icons include Louie Armstrong, Miles Davis, Tony Desare and Frank Sinatra.  

   As for this year, Jackson said students should expect to hear, “standard band and newly composed literature combined into one.  I hope to present something every student can connect to.
The new head of vocal music, Christopher Brammer, has some big shoes to fill. 

   Former Choir Director Kevin Hawkins had an award-winning reputation, and several students said they were sad to see him leave. When Hawkins announced that he was leaving, students showed obvious disappointment. There were high expectations for his replacement.         

    Brammer’s optimism is evident. “I hope to bring a youthful energy that will allow and encourage an already great program to improve and reach new heights,” he said.

   Brammer has introduced some new elements and events to the music department to make it his own. An advanced women’s choir, a few holiday concerts, and a possible cabaret concert at a coffee shop or restaurant are a few of the ideas Brammer are just a few ideas.

   Brammer has worked with a variety of ages, having held positions at a high school in Florida, a middle school in Arkansas and at Missouri State University.                

   Brammer said: “There are tons of talented kids here. Most of the kids I’ve dealt with know how to treat adults and have really impressed me.”

   The choirs’ first performance is scheduled for Oct. 20.