Get to Know the Director
Hello my name is Jennifer Prince and I am the band and choir director at Nowata. I have been a musician for over 30 years with flute being my primary instrument. I earned my bachelors degree in Music Education at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan and my master’s degree in Music Education from Boston University in Boston, Massachusetts. I have been a music teacher for over 18 years.
My husband Jason, is also a teacher at Nowata Public Schools. We have four children that either attend or have graduated from Nowata; Victoria, Michael, Chelo and Amelia. With the help, support, encouragement and love of my family I have been able to create an amazing music program here at Nowata.
I believe that every student has the ability to be a musician and or vocalist and as a professional musician and educator it is my responsibility to help bring out his/her potential. Music is an art that not only allows us to express our creative ideas, but also helps us to open our minds to endless possibilities in academic studies. I further believe that music in the schools help to develop skills that can make a difference in our students’ lives. Such skills as high self-esteem, character, leadership, creativity, self-expression, responsibility and teamwork are ones that our students can use in and outside of band and choir class, during school years and long after.
Band
We have three band programs here at Nowata Public Schools.
Beginning Band: This is our first level band primarily made up of 6th grade students but open to any first year student in grades 6th - 8th interested in being a part of the band. This ensemble participates in three concerts a year and band festival.
Middle School Band: This is our second level band primarily made up of 7th grade students but is open to any second or even third year student in grades 7th and 8th. This ensemble participates in three concerts a year, band festival and performs at HS Graduation.
High School Band: Our high school band is made up of students 8th - 12th grade. This ensemble participates in three concerts a year, band festival, marching band, pep band for basketball, various school and community events and performs at HS Graduation.
The Marching Ironmen: The Marching Ironmen is made up of the members of our HS Band. This is a competitive Marching Band participating in five marching competitions a year, three annual parades and all home and away football games. Additional Mandatory requirements include: Marching Band Camp at the end of July, evening rehearsals two to three times a week August - November and after school sectionals once a week lead by student leadership.
Additional Instrumental Opportunities:
OSSAA Solo Ensemble:
Students in both the MS and HS School Band has the opportunity to participate at Solo Ensemble as a soloist or in an ensemble if they so desire.
MEOBDA Honor Band: Members of both the MS and HS bands have the opportunity to audition and participate at the MEOBDA Honor's Band.
Choir
We have two choir programs here at Nowata Public Schools
Middle School Choir: This is our beginning and intermediate level choir made up of students 6th - 8th grade. This ensemble participates in three concerts a year, one choir festival and performs at MS Graduation.
High School Choir: This is our advanced choir made up of students 9th - 12th grade. First time students are welcome to join with know prior experience. This ensemble participates in three concerts a year, two choir festivals, they are featured at various school and community events and perform at HS Graduation.
Additional Vocal Opportunities:
OU Real Men Sing: This is an event for our male vocalist in both MS and HS Choir. It is a workshop and concert to help our young men develop their voice.
National Anthem: Members of the HS Choir have the opportunity to sing the National Anthem at our Home Football and Basketball Games.
OSSAA Solo Ensemble: Students in both the MS and HS School Choir has the opportunity to participate at Solo Ensemble as a soloist or in an ensemble if they so desire.