Dear Band Students and Supporters,

As the new Director of Bands at OCHS, I would like to say thank you for allowing me the opportunity to work with you and to add to the tradition of excellence you have established.  Allow me to tell you a little about myself.  I cannot wait to get to know you!

I earned a Bachelor’s in Music Education at Georgia Southern University, where flute was my primary instrument.  If I had to name a secondary, it would be percussion.  I have worked with several percussion ensembles and have experience with marching percussion as well.  I also have choral experience, and sing background vocals regularly at my church.  I plan to begin working on my Masters degree in the next few years, and look forward to learning more about being a great teacher.

For the past two years I have been the Director of Bands at Greene County High School.  We have been rebuilding that program, almost from the ground up. The students worked extremely hard to set a high standard.  They bought into the idea that they could be great, even though they were small.  Through hard work, dedication, practice and commitment, together we were able to rebuild the band program into one the community, school and students are very proud of.

In 2008, I married Mr. Michael Pike.  My husband and I live in Athens, as it is convenient to both of our jobs, and we have put down some roots in the community.  Mr. Pike is a musician, as well, and has played guitar for almost fifteen years.  He’s really good, if I do say so myself!

I sincerely look forward to working with the students of OCHS.  I have heard good things about this program, and I cannot wait to add my expertise to what you already have established.  I love everything about band – marching, wind ensemble, jazz – and I hope to have the opportunity to teach choir as well.

I expect the very best of myself, as well as the students.  I expect a positive attitude and an intense work ethic out of all of us.  I expect practice, dedication, and commitment.  I also expect everyone to have a lot of fun!  All of that sounds pretty cliché, I know, but you will find I really mean those things as we start to work together.

I have to thank Mr. Kenney for giving years of his life to building this band program.  He has been fantastic, and will be sorely missed, I know.  I also sincerely look forward to working with Mr. Ruppelt at the Middle School.  I cannot wait to meet all of you, as I have already met many of the students and parents, and to start working together to continue building up this program.  You have a fantastic foundation on which to build.

All the best,

Lauren M. Pike

email: director@oglethorpecountyband.net

To The Parents

Band Boosters Needed!