The Prentiss High School 2014-15 band may be smaller in number this year but they have a heart to perform. New band director Andre Newell states he is working to produce quality showmanship and performance and asks for patience from the football game crowds while they work together to polish instrumental performance and routines.

Newell has directed bands in schools in Heidelberg, Port Gibson, Bay Springs and New Orleans, LA before coming to Prentiss. His goals are to develop further the early grade band program, improve musicianship and fundamentals looking toward the goal of scholarships for senior students. Band clinics and competitions are on his list of considerations.

“Administrative support has been great and student reception to me has gotten off to a good start considering the time constraints,” states Newell.

Kadrian Washington coordinates the Blazin Bullettes who bring color and flare to the PHS band. The group includes the Blazin Bullettes and Sugar Mamas of high school age, and the Baby Bullettes of younger girls.

To be a member of the group a student has to pass an interview and boot camp plus maintain at least a C average in academics. Qua Young serves at Team Captain.

“This is our second year and the girls perform dances of jazz, ballet and R & B. These girls have attended the Sparkling Dance Camp this summer and worked hard on their routines. They perform at football games, parades, pep rallies community events and also do community service,” states Washington. “They work hard and practice year round but have a lot of fun all the time.”

Increased parental and community encouragement and support are of great importance to the students and are high on the list of both directors in order to help the PHS band program reach its full potential.