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Dessau Middle School Band

Bands at DMS

The Diamondback Band program has a strong history of success and pride. We are not just in the business of training musicians. We help students become better people. Students in the band program are held to a high standard of academic achievement and are expected to be role models to their peers. Music gives students an outlet to explore their potential. And besides....what's more fun that making music with your friends?

7th and 8th Grade Bands

Students in 7th and 8th grade are placed into Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band or Concert Band based on audition. All three ensembles meet each school day and there are numerous concerts throughout the year. Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band will also participate in UIL Concert and Sightreading and will enjoy an end of the year performance (and fun day) at Schlitterbahn, Six Flags or a similar location. Both bands will combine for the Pflugerville Festival of Bands, Pflugerville Deutchenfest, pep rallies and football games. Individuals can perform at the Solo and Ensemble Contest and can audition for District Band. Please visit the 7th and 8th Grade Bands link for more information.

7th and 8th grade students can also perform in the DMS Jazz Band. This band is made up of all the brass and woodwind instruments, and in addition, bass guitar, lead guitar and drum set. The band performs many different styles of music and is a great oportunity for the students to learn how to "swing!"

6th Grade Beginning Band

DMS students have the opportunity to join band in the 6th grade and have band class each school day. Classes are divided into sections of similar instruments so that the students can receive more individual attention. The 6th Grade Band has at least 2 concerts throughout the year as well as other performances for the 5th grade students, parents and the student body. The 6th Grade Band will also join the Diamondback Band at a football game. 6th Grade members will have the opportunity to perform at a Solo and Ensemble Competition. The band will also perform at and end of the year contest (and fun day) and Schlitterbahn. Please visit the 6th Grade Band link for more information.

Are you interested in joining the Diamondback Band?

At the end of the school year, 5th graders can enjoy the "instrument petting zoo." Students can experience all of the instruments with band directors on hand to help them choose the one that fits best. If you missed this activity, or if you are a 6th or 7th grader interested in joining, please contact the band directors for an appointment. Please visit the 6th Grade Band link for more information.

Meet the Directors

Denise Bell is the Director of Bands at DMS. She has been teaching for over 20 years in Texas but is originally from New York. Ms. Bell attended The Ohio State University (Bachelor of Music Education) and East Carolina University (Master of Saxophone Performance).

Jana Galloway is the Assistant Director of Bands at DMS. She is a native Texan and attended The University of Texas at Austin (Bachelor of Music Education) and The University of Michigan (Master of Trumpet Performance). Ms. Galloway has taught in Texas and Michigan. She also served in the US Army Band for three years.

Email

  • Denise Bell, Director of Bands
    denise.bell@pflugervilleisd.net
  • Jana Galloway, Assistant Director of Bands
    jana.galloway@pflugervilleisd.net

Phone

  • Band Hall 512-594-2665
  • School Office 512-594-2600
  • School Fax 512-594-2605

Mailing Address

  • Dessau Middle School Band
  • 12900 Dessau Rd.
  • Austin, TX 78754