Dear Sir or Madam,

In truth I have not been active this year after the early part of the fiscal year when I hoped the band might continue throughout the year and gain the band some exposure with some extra gatherings for rehearsals and performances. I also hoped we could continue to expand our repertoire with new music, which would enrich the march music for which we are known. Since I am spending more time on the band to fulfill upcoming performances all those items that was hoped to be finished should be available on the web site. That includes midi music for practice and hopefully downloadable parts. I will give more music on a timely basis upon interest and a satisfied performance of music that has been handed out. To date our selections are:

In order to prepare for this performance there is a paid dress rehearsal on May 21, 2005 in Window Rock at the to be announced from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. You will need to bring:

In the past the Navajo Nation Band got its reputation through having a large number of people play to create it’s sound. I have even heard that the intonation and pitch of the band gives it it’s own special quality. I do not know if this is wishful thinking or has real bearing, but I do know of ways to increase volume while producing presentable music, which I hope, is why people still enjoy playing in the band. Last year I thought Val and Pat did a great job in diversifying the music and I thought with the time the band invested in the practice of the material produced a satisfactory result. The standard with the Navajo Nation is that:

Last year proved that the band has good and bad habits. At this time the band does not have a Band Major. There are a couple of possibilities and I hope that they contact me as soon as possible. The band has a rhythm when it sounds superb. Everything fits. Now to get to that place requires at least two songs with no extra obstacles, such as last minute shuffling of personnel. A wondering of what song is being played… etc. If there is to be a change in this area nothing helps like practice and pride in your work. If the band was a concert band or a C & W band or a rubber band, although they would have their own properties pertaining to their particular place in the universe which would be one thing, but our main function is being a parade band. We have concerts that allow us to play march music onstage but this is the major venue for the band. We have four major responsibilities in a parade.

Although I understand, that something can happen at the last minute. An item of the uniform is left at home and cannot be retrieved. Music was eaten by the dog. I did not check during the week whether I had all the proper equipment for the performance. If the Band is to be recognized in a positive light it is imperative that we dress the same, march the same, and play together in straight ranks and files.

Most of the band who have been in it for a number of years take the time to make sure everything is in order the week before a performance and put it in a place where it can be found or packed in the car the night before. We do have a number of young players that maybe this is not the case which brings up another point that I will lightly touch upon in the closing. I hope that those who are in this group will understand that there is no excuse for taking this part of the requirements of the band lightly. In fact I have made a decision that those who cannot complete the required uniform will not march or be able to claim their stipend.

The other way to get help is to call other members in the band during the week before. Usually this is a good idea and of course although I do not have any extra items at this time to hand out there is the possibility that others might let you borrow them for the duration of the parade. I am also hoping that this rehearsal will be able to help you purchase what is needed for the coming season.

Now I do not wish to do this in the light of being mean or fastidious, but in the hope that people will take their appearance seriously as well as how they are being perceived and judged by being an ambassador and representative of the Navajo Nation.

I am hoping that the band also is aware of the 50^th year celebration which is dependent on its members showing an interest in it. If the giving of tribute to past members (most of whom are our fathers, mothers, and grandparents) who have contributed a vast amount of time and energy to this group that has survived over 75 years is to be a success, then a certain amount of energy should be given in return if you indeed hold any respect for the group and its predecessors you call yourself a part of.

It is in my nature to be exacting though hopefully not irritating (although I take that chance just by being me) . I will listen to your concerns although the best way to get action is to address your concerns to me in writing or Human Resources in writing as well. I have heard that many times the Office of the President was the first entity contacted to hear concerns of the band which only delays prompt attention to the matter at hand. The first steps in addressing concerns are the band director or Human Resources. I want to let you know that this band is a reflection of what the group wants to be and that I am really your instrument in the processing of those goals. I hope that this year will reward you as much as it will reward the people who enjoy the existence of the band as I look forward to your responses. Thank you for your attention and I hope to see you soon.