SPOTLIGHT ON: La Feria ISD Fine Arts Music Programs

Marching Band
The La Feria High School Marching Band is the flagship of the band program at La Feria ISD. Membership in the Mighty Lion Band usually runs in the 250-270 member range, making it the largest 4A band in the Rio Grande Valley. In recent years, the Lion Band has been awarded Best in Class at the Lakeshore Marching Festival, including being awarded the Outstanding drumline, Outstanding Colorguard, and Outstanding Drum Majors awards. The Lion Band was a three time Texas State Honor Band winner in 1959,1960,1961 and were a two time Alternate to the State Marching Contest. Former Lion Band students have gone on to march at the university level at Texas A&M University Kingsville, University of Southern Arkansas, and TCU. Some of them have gone on to major in music education. Including saxophonist Ben Facundo, who earned 1st Chair Position at the ATSSB All State Band last year.

Jazz Band
The La Feria High School Jazz Band is comprised of approximately 20 select students. The jazz band meets afterschool twice a week after the end of marching season. They perform at the Christmas and spring concerts, the senior breakfast, and other functions throughout the school year. The jazz band has recently performed at the No Child Left Behind National Conference, the MASBA State Conference, and recently performed for U.S. Congressman Philemon Vela. Recently, the jazz band had one of its members, Troy Fonseca, selected to the ATSSB All State Jazz Band. Troy performed in San Antonio under the direction of Professional Saxophonist Chris Vadala.

Mariachi
This year, La Feria High School added a mariachi class. Those 10 students meet daily and are learning how to read music and play an instrument. It is expected that by the end of the school year, these students will be able to play at various school events and compete at various contests in the near future.

Choir
La Feria ISD expanded their Fine Arts Program for the 2014-2015 school year to include a Choir Program from 6th grade through high school. There are 143 students enrolled in the choir program this year. Currently, all students are experiencing success at sight reading music and rhythm at their appropriate level. On Saturday, September 27, 2014, seven LFHS choir students will be auditioning for the TMEA District Choir. W.B. Green Jr. High choir students are preparing for their Solo and Ensemble competition coming up in October.