Farewell!

June 18, 2009

Dear Cougars,

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all students, parents, and staff for a fantastic experience as Director of Bands at University High School for the past six years. I would have sent an e-mail sooner, but the end of the year proved to be busier than ever!

Over the past six years, University has maintained one of the finest band programs in Orange County and in Florida. The marching program has maintained a "Top 8" finish at the Florida Marching Band Championships, the Wind Ensemble has earned 5 years of Superior Ratings at the State level, the concert band program has consistently received Superior Ratings at District Concert Band MPA, the Jazz Band program consistently represents UHS at District and State MPA's well, the University Band program produced two Wind Band Commissions, the Winter Guard Program maintains status as one of the premiere groups in the world, the Indoor Percussion program began just two years ago and earned national acclaim, over a dozen students have graduated and began collegiate music studies/careers, and most importantly over 270 students have graduated over the past six years that will always have the Cougar Band Guard close in their hearts.

I have had a great time at University High School. I will always remember how amazing and talented the students have been. I will always remember how hard working the students and parents have been. The commitment to excellence from the students, parents, staff, UHS faculty, and UHS administration have helped maintain a top notch band program.

Parents -- there is no way UHS could have been as successful as they have been without you. I know I don't say it enough, but you are amazing. Thank you UHS Parents for the gift this summer. The timing of a weekend away was perfect. Special thanks go out to my colleagues over the past few years: Mr. Steff, Mr. Jennings, Mr. Henderson, Mr. Janeiro, Mrs. Douglass, Mrs. Chase, Mr. Chase, Mr. Jeurgens, Mrs. Dill, Mr. Guthrie, Mr. Christiansen, and ESPESCIALLY Mrs. Romero. You have made a crazy job a lot of fun and very rewarding.

The future at UHS will continue to shine. Mr. Steff will be a fantastic Director of Bands. Parents, always remember that your role is to support the great things the band does. Let the directors teach and plan. Let the students practice and work. When everyone is on the same page and when everyone's focus is on performing excellence, amazing things happen! Always fight for what is right and never let ANYTHING get in the way of the University Cougar Band and Guard. Remember that You'll Never Walk Alone!

Musically yours,

Philip A. Obado
Director of Bands
University High School