Welcome to the
Hallowes Cove Academy Hurricane Band
Ms. Isabella Mitrione, Director
2026-2027 Band Handbook coming soon
Meet the Director, Ms. Mitrione
I am excited to work with you all in establishing a tradition of excellence at our emerging school! There is much potential in the opportunity we have together, and it is an honor to begin writing history with such a fine community.
Middle school is a pivotal time in a child’s life where interests, sociability, and cognition greatly develop and leave lasting impressions. Music education provides students with far more than technical skill. We do not teach music; we teach humans. Our program is designed for students to challenge themselves in new ways, build a network of support, and experience the joy of music in a thrilling ensemble setting. Students strengthen their emotional awareness skills and gain a vital outlet by engaging in self-expression. We prioritize a community of belonging where friendship, confidence, and pride in shared goals are valued. Band allows our youth to develop high moral character within an exhilarating experience that we only get one chance at taking advantage of.
The band program offers students many opportunities to perform for their peers, families, and greater community throughout the year, including:
- Seasonal Concerts: Showing our progress and hard work to family and peers.
- District Music Performance Assessment: Challenging our musicians to reach new heights of technical mastery and getting expert feedback from our state’s best teachers.
- Pep Band: Representing HCA with the national anthem and fight song.
- Solo & Ensemble: Preparing a piece and receiving individualized feedback from excellent music educators.
- Honor Band: Performing with other students in the district or state and experiencing new ensemble ideas.
My foundation in band began at Kanapaha Middle School and F.W. Buchholz High School in Gainesville, Florida. I later earned my Bachelor of Music Education and Certificate in Music Technology from the University of North Florida. I am active in the Florida Bandmasters Association and value my fellow band directors’ insights and collaboration.
It is a privilege to be in a position where I can provide a creative outlet and actively make a difference in our students’ lives. I sincerely look forward to seeing our band stretch its legs and put itself out there this year. Thank you for your support and for being such an active member of our band family.
Isabella Mitrione
B.A.N.D. Expectations
BelongingWe accept, value, respect, and include each other
AccountabilityWe take responsibility for our actions
NobilityWe hold ourselves to high moral character
DriveWe push through challenges and take action
2026-2027 Schedule of Events
Coming soon
Yearly Band Fees
Fair Share: $150
Instrument Maintenance Fee (for school-owned instruments): $165
Online payment method coming soon
Hallowes Cove Academy Band Booster Organization Board 2026-2027
Vice President: Katherine Griffin
Treasurer: Corrine Stevens
Secretary: Michelle Midgley
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why should we choose band as an elective?A: There are many exceptional reasons why band should be your first choice as an elective. Here are some of the most compelling arguments:
1) We need music in our curriculum because we need music in our lives. Music is part of being human and it’s important.
2) The band experience requires students to collaborate and shift from I/me reasoning to a we/us. This is important for citizenship, teamwork, and leadership.
3) The brain grows stronger in many fashions when learning music. A study from The Brain Behavior and Immunity Journal cites “music training can bring about structural and functional changes in the brain, and studies have shown its positive effects on social bonding, cognitive abilities, and language processing” (Zaatar, 2023).
4) Music students score better on average in math, science, and English than their non-musical peers. The Journal of Educational Psychology published proof of this in a study of over 100,000 students (Guhn, 2019).
5) Those who have not learned to play an instrument regret it later in life. The National Association of Music Merchants cites that 82% of adults who did not learn an instrument wish they had done so (Calif, 2006).
Q: How do we get an instrument for a beginner?A: Beginning Band students do not need to have an instrument before the school year begins. We conduct instrument testing at school to determine the best fits for each student. When the instrument choice has been made, you must obtain a quality instrument. Rhapsody Music will discuss their options with us at their “Instrument Rental Night” on September 1st. You may also rent an instrument from Music & Arts. If you want to purchase the instrument, do not buy one from Amazon or other online merchants and do not buy a plastic, colorful instrument. These instruments are poorly made, will not last, and shops will not attempt to repair them. If a student uses a low-quality instrument, it is highly likely they will struggle, become frustrated, and quit. To ensure success, only purchase instruments from Rhapsody Music and Music & Arts. They will provide you with instruments from trusted brands and support you when the instrument needs repair.
Q: Does my child need to know how to read music to join band?
A: No. A student needs a good attitude and desire to learn to be successful in band! Our elementary programs have well-prepared our students for band success.
Q: What does it cost to be in band?
A: Students must have a quality band instrument. Rental plans range from $25-$55 per month on a “rent-to-own” program. Instruments are typically paid off in 2-3 years and it is yours to keep. You may choose to pay it off early for a discount. Instruments can be returned to the dealer at any time, ending the contract before it is completed. You may also buy a new instrument, buy a used instrument, or use one that you already own, if it’s in good condition. Your instrument is an investment which will hold value for years to come. Be sure to obtain a name brand instrument from a music company, not an online site. It’s also important to rent or buy from a store that can provide expert service and repair. If you are unsure, please let me advise you.
School-owned instruments may be rented for $165 per year. Our current inventory includes tuba, euphonium, French horn, bass clarinet, tenor saxophone, and baritone saxophone. The fee allows us to clean and repair the instrument each year.There is a $150 Fair Share fee for all students that covers the year’s needed materials such as small accessories, books, music, rewards, guest instructors, professional organization fees, and uniforms.
Q: Will my child be graded in band?
A: Yes. Band is a class with a curriculum based on Florida’s CPALMS standards. Grading policies are available in our Band Handbook, but you may also view the document, Band Grading.
Q: Is there an afterschool commitment for band?
A: Afterschool practices are extremely rare or never given. The dispersed concerts we have are most important.
Q: Where should I get my instrument repaired?
A: If you are renting the instrument, the dealer will make common repairs for free. If you own the instrument, I recommend the professionals at Rhapsody Music. They are located on State Road 13, and their number is (904) 642-4040.
Q: Does Band Fit Well with an Advanced Academic Schedule?
A: We are able to accomplish what we need as a band during the school day, so students can easily add other activities to their schedules. In our program, we have many students who excel in advanced courses, are on sports teams, attend church, are involved in theatre productions, are members in clubs like “National Junior Honor Society” and “Girls on the Run,” and participate in academic events like “Math Counts” and “Battle of the Books.” Band kids are some of the most well-rounded kids around! Whether you are in band or not, good grades are dependent upon being an organized, good worker. If you are conscientious and organized, band (or any other activity) will not adversely affect your grades. Of course, practice at home is required in order to make progress.
