Help Fund a Special Composition for Roy J Smith MS Bands
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Help Us Bring Light Through Music – Support the Roy J Smith Middle School Band Program!
As a parent of a Roy J Smith MS wind ensemble band student, I am reaching out to ask for your support of something truly special happening at Roy J. Smith Middle School in Killeen, Texas — a moment of healing, celebration, and hope through the power of music.
On March 6th, 2025, our talented Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band achieved something extraordinary — their 5th and 3rd consecutive UIL Sweepstakes Awards, respectively. In fact, Smith Middle School was the only campus in KISD where both bands earned this top honor!
Earlier in the year, they also received the Bruce Peterson Award at the Region Band Contest — a prestigious recognition given to the KISD school that places the most students and earns the highest number of spots in the region band. These victories are more than trophies; they represent the hard work, unity, and excellence of our students and their directors, Ms. Morris and Mr. Brigham — two passionate educators who go above and beyond every single day.
One of the students’ favorite composers this year was Mr. JaRod Hall — a celebrated Texas-native composer, educator, and performer. As a surprise for her students, Ms. Morris reached out to Mr. Hall to see if he would be willing to visit their band program. He said yes.
Then came March 10th — the day everything changed.
A tragic and highly publicized incident occurred on our campus — a fatal stabbing that rocked the entire school community and placed Roy J. Smith Middle School under an unforgiving spotlight. In the days that followed, the students' incredible achievements were overshadowed by tragedy. But through it all, one thing remained steady: the resilience and heart of our band program.
In the spirit of healing and hope, Ms. Morris commissioned Mr. Hall to write an original piece of music — one that could encapsulate what her students have experienced and overcome. Mr. Hall responded with a beautifully moving composition titled “Pressure and Heat.” This piece will premiere at our Spring Concert on May 14th at 6:00 P.M. in the Chaparral High School auditorium.
This music is a gift of love and legacy to our students — but it does come at a cost. The commissioned piece is $3,000, and I am seeking help from our community, alumni, supporters of the arts, and anyone who believes in the power of music to heal and inspire. I would love to gift any amount raised to the Roy J Smith MS Band Program to help cover the cost.
Even if I don’t reach the full amount, every dollar counts and will go directly toward offsetting the cost of the commission and supporting this incredible program.
We know that news coverage doesn’t always show the whole picture — but we hope you can see the light still shining here at Smith. Help us lift our students, celebrate their achievements, and continue building a legacy of excellence through music.
Thank you for your generosity, love, and support. ❤️
#SmithBandStrong #MusicHeals #SupportTheArts
Organizer
Christine Elias
Organizer
Killeen, TX