More than 60 Marion Junior and Senior High band members have been attending Dixie Band Camp held at the University of Central Arkansas over the past two weeks. Dixie Band Camp is the oldest band camp in the South, founded in 1937. It fosters one of the finest reputations for musical excellence in the country.
Students who attend band camp audition and are placed in highly competitive concert bands with students from Arkansas and several surrounding states. Students also get to experience what college life is like, as they live in dorms and receive their meals in the cafeteria and student center at UCA. During the day, students rehearse in their concert band, receive sectional instruction, and participate in electives such as music theory, jazz band, and chamber ensembles.
“Our students have enjoyed the experience of learning advanced techniques on their instrument and also meeting new friends from various schools,” said Director of Bands Monty Hill. “As the Marion Band Program continues to grow, we look forward to many more years of Dixie Band Camp providing a great resource for our students.”
Students who are juniors and seniors in high school serve the camp as captains each year. Two Marion students, Miller Owen and Teneal Adams, were selected by the camp faculty and staff as Dixie Band Camp captains for the 2023 camp.
Band camp is a great way for students to practice over the summer, receive professional instruction, and meet new friends that will last a lifetime.
The Marion School District is an innovative and growing district committed to helping every student find their unique path to success in school and in life. With more than 150 years of experience serving families in Crittenden County, the district offers a high school, a junior high, and three award-winning magnet schools. For enrollment information, including information on school choice, visit https://www.msd3.org/ or call 870-739-5100.