Barnes and Noble (Old Orchard) Bookfair

Our annual Barnes and Noble Bookfair at the Old Orchard Barnes and Noble is taking place Wednesday, November 28.  A portion of all purchases made with an accompanying Bookfair Voucher will be donated to our band program.

There will not be any student performances this year (miscommunication with B&N) , but we’ll be sure to start those up again next fall.

Skokie School District 73.5 Parent and noted author Rich Cahan will be doing a presentation and signing for his new book Chicago: City on the Move at 7:30 PM the evening of the 28th.

Posted: November 20, 2007 | PermaLink

In the Press • 11/16

    • Driven to music: A child prodigy at 15 [CNN]
    • Federal Judge prohibits state superintendent from enforcing mandatory moment of silence [Buffalo Grove Countryside]
    • Bands prepare for Chicago’s Thanksgiving Parade [Post-Tribune]
    • Lake Central High School to compete in BOA Grand Nationals [Post-Tribune]
    • Overfunded Public School Forced to add Jazz Band [The Onion]

Posted: November 16, 2007 | PermaLink

1st Quarter Honor Roll

Congratulations to all McCracken Band members for your academic accomplishments so far this year. 44 out of 51 Symphonic Band members were listed on either the Honor Roll or High Honor Roll. The percentage in the Concert Band was even more impressive with 20 out of 23 students. Great Work!

In national news, a new Harris Poll Links Music Education to Advanced Studies and Higher Incomes. While this is a poll and not a research study, it does demonstrate the recognition of and appreciation for the importance of arts education for all students.

    • New Harris Poll Links Music Education to Advanced Studies and Higher Incomes [MENC]
    • Music helps improve the mind [KSNT]

Posted: November 16, 2007 | PermaLink

In Memorium: Bill Schraft

Bill Schraft, the band director at Glenbard North High School, passed away yesterday. Bill was at Glenbard North for 28 years, was very active as an adjudicator for the Illinois Grade School Music Association, and was an admired and respected member of our profession. He will be greatly missed.

    • Online Obituary and Memorial [Legacy.com]
    • From your keyboard to God’s ears: Online prayer requests take flight [Medill Reports]
    • Special Tribute Planned for Glenbard North Teacher [Daily Herald]
    • In Memory of Bill Schraft – 28 years of service to Glenbard North High School [Glenbard North HS]

Posted: November 1, 2007 | PermaLink