On April 1, all the choir groups that competed achieved sweepstakes and both bands received this as well on April 7. Over the last few weeks the Sandie band and choir prepared to compete at UIL, bringing home multiple sweepstakes.

This is the band’s 42nd time getting sweepstakes in a row and Director Robert Hinds’ 29th year of teaching. In addition this is choir instructor, Brian Hackett’s first time receiving a complete sweepstake as a high school teacher.

“It is an incredible feeling to have all of our choirs make sweepstakes my first year at AHS,” Hackett said. “I’m so excited about the success of all of our choirs.”

Hackett worked with his students daily for around two months preparing and practicing the music they would sing for the UIL competition. In addition, the students completed sectionals each week to better prepare themselves for the challenge ahead. Hackett received sweepstakes starting a streak that will hopefully carry on for many years to come.

“…We have to design and plan in ways that will benefit the entire group in the long run,” Assistant Band Director Dakota Lancaster said. “That includes writing music and drill, selecting appropriate repertoire, and choosing materials that best serve both the soloists and the ensembles.”

The programs prepare their students in similar ways. They start with assessing current skill levels of their bands to pick the appropriate music levels to play for competition. They then spend several months preparing and practicing the music that they choose. This includes holding sectionals similarly to choir. 

“Our goal is to always prepare so we have our best performance.” Hinds said. “If you do that, the rating should take care of itself.”