Hey Hellgate Band Families,

Throughout the year, the bands dig into effective, upbeat leadership practices. We especially chat about skills like competence, communication, compassion, and clarity. I couldn't be more delighted when students in each band class model high expectations through their enthusiastic encouragement, dependable attendance, accountability, diligent practice outside of class, and focused sectionals with their teammates during lunch or office hours. Like Coach Lasso says, "the harder we work, the luckier we get."   -Mr. Dochnahl

Changes to our Events Calendar:  Please note that, due to scheduling conflicts with our Hellgate+Washington Band families, Hellgate will switch our May concert and banquet dates. Hopefully this alleviates the double-booking for more families.

• Band Awards Banquet for all band families May 22
• Final Band Concert May 23

Upcoming Events - See our Events Page for the Full Calendar (updated)

• Feb 20, Guest artist and HHS alumna Rosie Cerquone inspires our band classes
• Feb 20, Pep Band game, 6:15 PM (girls senior night)
• Feb 22, Pep Band Game, 6:15 PM (boys senior night)
• Feb 22, Percussion Ensemble rehearse with their respective band (2nd or 4th period)
• Feb 26, UM Concert Band Festival (schedule and info)
  • Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Percussion Ensemble (who all sound awesome right now!)
• Feb 28, Joshua Redman jazz concert in Kalispell. Depart at 3:30 PM from HHS, return ~midnight. Be sure you fill out the survey (via email) if you plan to attend.
• March 1, Jazz Bands plays at First Friday for Hellgate art club, at the Missoula Public Library
  • Students arrive at 4:30 PM (top floor), perform at 5:00-7:00 PM ish
  • Attire - Red Hellgate band shirt and jeans
• March 4-5, AA Band Festival in Missoula (Wind Ensemble members)
  • Info and schedule
  • All other bands MUST watch these excellent concerts at 7pm on March 4 and 5. Don't miss the free live music, AND a chance to support your peers from across the state.
• March 8-9, Pep Band at the State Basketball Tournament in Missoula
  • Game schedule TBD
• March 14, UM Buddy DeFranco Jazz Festival for all jazz bands (schedule TBD)

New Orleans 2025 Band Trip Kick-Off week! If all goes to plan, check your email this week for the Kick-Off Invitation Letter. You won't want to miss this tour for 2025!

Celebrating Musical Excellence and Legacy at Hellgate:  Massive gratitude to our band parent volunteers for updating our "trophy" case in the band hall and hanging new All-State banners in the halls. A very special thanks to our hard working musicians who set the bar high with grace, persistence, and kindness. 

How to make up points if I am absent

1. Schedule an outside 15-minute lesson with Mr. Dochnahl for each absence.
2. Practice an additional hour per week on your own and fill out your practice journal. Show Mr. D.
3. Athletics/Other school events – If you are going to miss a class due to a school activity let me know far in advance with an appropriate note or absence form. Communication is our best friend!

Band Photo Album:  Please view and add as our events cruise along. Thank you.

I can't thank you enough for your continued support for music and our students.
Mr. Dochnahl