Cain Symphonic and Honors Bands receive National Windband Honors

Cain MS Band Directors Preston Prior (left) and Trevor Ousey

ROCKWALL-HEATH, TX (Sept. 17, 2021) The 2020-2021 Cain Middle School Symphonic Band, under the direction of Preston Prior, has been named a Winner of the 2021 Citation of Excellence National Wind Band Honors competition. This is the highest honor in this division. Only four bands earned this distinction across the country. This is the first time the band has received this award in the school’s 21-year history.

The 2020-2021 Cain Middle School Honors Band, under the baton of the former director Trevor Ousey, has been named a Commended Winner in the 2021 Mark of Excellence National Wind Band Honors competition. This is the second time the band has received this award in the school’s 21-year history.

“We are beyond thrilled for the students and the program,” said Mr. Ousey. “It is an honor to receive these awards.”

The Citation of Excellence and Mark of Excellence are national music competitions that recognize music programs and their ensembles for high standards in music performance. The competition is sponsored by The Foundation for Music Education, a national organization dedicated to the support and advancement of music education.

Bands are judged by nationally respected adjudicators and directors. This year’s adjudicators included: Richard Floyd – Texas UIL State Director of Music Emeritus, Don Wilcox – Director of Bands Emeritus – West Virginia University, Kevin Sedatole – Director of Bands – Michigan State University, and Dr. Timothy Rhea – Director of Bands and Music Activities – Texas A&M University.

“The caliber of bands who enter this competition is staggering” said Mr. Preston Prior, Assistant Band Director at Cain Middle School. “Not only is it an honor to receive this award, but it is amazing to be amongst so many fine band programs from around the country.”

“The kids did all of the work!” said Mr. Ousey. “Without the commitment of our students, staff, and families, none of this would be possible. I am so incredibly proud!”

This year over 301 bands from across the country submitted recordings into the various divisions.

The Cain Band staff would like to thank our team, our students, our families, Mr. Randle – Principal of Cain MS, Mr. Sumrak – RISD Fine Arts Director, and all of the amazing staff at Cain Middle School for supporting our students and our program – we look forward to continuing the tradition of excellence in the Cain Mustang Band!

Submitted press release, edited for publication in Blue Ribbon News.