STAR JOURNAL REPORT

The Three Lakes School band program has been recognized by a longtime Wisconsin music store as its School of the Month.

“We believe that it is important for us as a company to identify and commend students and teachers alike for what they do for music in education and their community,” says Todd Heid, President and third generation owner of Heid Music.

The Three Lakes High School Jazz Ensemble is one of several bands under the direction of Mark Pieplow. Submitted photo.

The Three Lakes Band Program, under the direction of Mark Pieplow, features more than 100 students from grades 6 through 12.  The program is made up of a high school band, a high school jazz ensemble, a junior high school band, and 6^th grade bands at both Three Lakes and Sugar Camp.

According to a Heid Music press release, the program reaches much farther than learning to make music.  Band leaders say they teach the move of music, not just how to play the notes.  And while the Three Lakes School District may be small, program leaders say it can offer large district opportunities for its students.  The district’s bands have a long history of being active in the community, and many alumni are now parents and grandparents to current students in the band.

The Heid Music School of the Month program was created as a way to shine a spotlight on excelling music programs throughout Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. Nominations can be made at [email protected]

School of the Month recipients receive a commemorative award and recognition in Heid Music stores and social media platforms, as well as store vouchers for students.