In acknowledgment of his work with The Golden Stampede, the Mid-East Oklahoma Band Directors Association (MEOBDA) has announced the recipient of its prestigious Band Director of the Year award, Mr. Brennan Marcotte.
Under Brennan's guidance, Inola High School's band program has flourished, growing from 19 members when he first started to nearly 60 members in his third year at Inola. Beyond mere musical proficiency, he instills in his students values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance—qualities that extend far beyond the realm of music and into all aspects of their lives. Brennan is motivated by the "passion and dedication I have for music education and its profound impact on young lives. Every day presents a new opportunity to inspire and empower my students, fostering not only their musical talents but also instilling in them important life skills such as discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. Knowing that I play a part in shaping their future and helping them discover the joy of music is what drives me to strive for excellence in my work as a band director."
Upon receiving this esteemed accolade, Brennan expressed his gratitude to the MEOBDA and emphasized the importance of music education in shaping the lives of young individuals. When asked about his favorite part of being a band director, Brennan said "One of my favorite aspects of being a band director is witnessing the growth and development of my students, both musically and personally. It's incredibly rewarding to see them progress from day one, mastering new techniques, honing their skills, and ultimately coming together as a cohesive ensemble to create beautiful music. Additionally, the sense of camaraderie and teamwork within the band is something truly special that I cherish deeply."