BRITTANY THURSTON

March 29, 2016

To Whom It May Concern:
A successful middle school band program needs a director who possesses not only
the pedagogical skills to give beginning instrumentalists a solid foundation, but also
a high energy level that can motivate students to work hard while building a solid
sense of community and pride in the band program. Successful band programs are
an integral part of a positive and engaging school climate. In addition to providing a
musical education, students perform for the community spreading music and
sharing their talent. I want the opportunity to build your band program upon this
solid foundation. After earning my B.M. in Music Education from Georgia Southern
University followed up by a Masters in Music Education from Kent State University, I
have served as a middle school band director and high school band assistant
director for the past six years.
When I was hired as the middle school band director for McIntosh County Schools,
the programs were in a rebuilding phase. Working vertically with the high school
director, both levels have grown tremendously with the middle school tripling
enrollment from 2010-2014. Upon my arrival, the program went from earning low
performance scores at competitions to consistent superior and excellent ratings
building a tradition of success. This year, the concert band received a Superior at
the Ware County Concert Band Festival and an overall Excellent at District 1 Large
Group Performance Evaluation (LGPE). We aim to improve our performance in a few
weeks as we perform at Festival Disney.
The McIntosh County community joins me in taking pride in the growth of the
middle school band program. While overcoming obstacles faced by a small school
district, my experiences have taught me a great deal of creativity, the importance
of setting and working towards goals, and how to motivate students to develop selfconfidence while reaching the same goals. Unfortunately, due to a massive decline
in overall enrollment within the system, the district is unable to fund my position for
next school year. While meeting the countless challenges of running a middle school
program, I have gained valuable skills and experience to offer your students and
school as their band director. I am passionate about developing my students
musical talents and truly enjoy passing on my knowledge and enthusiasm. It would
be a privilege to serve your students and the community.
Respectfully,
Brittany Thurston