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Originally delivered on 12/23/2025 9:43 am

SUBJECT: FOMAHI News: December 2025 Edition

FOMAHI NEWS

December 2025

Fall Concerts

Congratulations to our students for their outstanding performances in Introductory Band, Intermediate Band, Premier Band, Junior Jazz, Introductory Orchestra, Premier Orchestra, Concert Orchestra, and Chamber Orchestra!

Special thanks to our music directors for guiding our musicians to be their very best.

We’re also grateful to our parents, guardians, and volunteers for their continued support of Hamilton’s music program—from organizing concerts and bake sales to donating, attending, and cheering on our performers.

Thank you all for helping make these events a success!

Need Concert Attire?

Students are asked to wear all black for performances. If your student needs concert attire, they may visit the Clothes Rack in Ms. Pence’s room—items are free to borrow or keep.

Gently used black clothing or shoes donations are always appreciated and may be sent to school with your child.

Note: Vocal Jazz and Jr. Jazz Band students will wear their black Vocal Jazz T-shirts ordered this fall.

Happy Holidays!

However you celebrate this season, FOMAHI wishes that your holiday is full of MUSIC and JOY!  We look forward to celebrating our musicians in 2026! 

Stay Connected & Support Our Music Program

Please take a moment to update your profile on the FOMAHI website so we can keep you informed about music news and events at HIMS.

While you're there, consider making a tax deductible donation to support FOMAHI. This year, we’re suggesting a voluntary $40 family contribution to help sustain the program until Music-a-Thon. 

Many employers match donations or volunteer hours, doubling your impact.

Thank you for supporting music at HIMS!

Music-A-Thon Save the Date!

Please mark your calendars- FOMAHI’s biggest fundraiser of the year will be on February 10, 2026. This is an all-day celebration of music!  Stay tuned!

Meet Teacher Newman!

We are excited to welcome Teacher Newman, who is teaching Ms. Pence’s classes while she is on maternity leave through the end of January. A native Virginian, Teacher Newman holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education and Flute Performance, as well as a Master of Arts in Teaching. They primarily play the flute and saxophone and have spent the last three years teaching in Japan. We are excited for the student musicians at HIMS to have the opportunity to work with a different expert, even if for a short time.  

Music Oppurtunities Around the City
Seattle Saxophone Institute Summer Camp

The 12th Annual Seattle Saxophone Institute is a four-day camp at the Phinney Community Center that focuses on all things saxophone! Students will play various styles including jazz, pop, funk, and classical while working in both large and small ensembles for a culminating Student Showcase Concert. The camp features three full-time faculty, and six guest artists throughout the workshop. 

More info at: Seattle Saxophone Institute

Hawks of Steel, Hamilton’s Steel Pan Program

Four steel pan classes are now underway at HIMS, with many students new to this vibrant art form and rising beautifully to the challenge. Each class is exploring a different piece, spanning jazz, Afro-Caribbean, and Brazilian styles, using steel pans crafted by master builder and performer Ancliff “Ansel” Joseph, connecting students to the living history of this remarkable instrument.

Quarter 3 registration begins January 8. Please email elpeila@seattleschools.org for details.

Come Join Us!

All are welcome to join the virtual FOMAHI Board Meeting on January 20, 7:00–8:30 pm. Hear updates from our music directors and learn more about Board activities. Email fomahihelp@gmail.com for the Zoom link. 


Looking for volunteers to fill current and upcoming Board openings. Your involvement is appreciated!


FOMAHI Board

Co-Presidents:

  • Band: Bridget Schuster
  • Choir: Jema Turk; Simon Weiss
  • Orchestra:Rachel Teigen Brackett
     

Board Members:

  • Treasurer: Jen Jerome
  • Secretary: Kate MacKenzie 
  • Concert Operations: Open Position

Committee Chairs:

  • Communications: Tara Mardan
  • Fundraising: Mary Schoen; Ali Friedman 
  • Website/Reg Toolkit Coordinator: Derek Denny-Brown
  • Volunteer Coordination Chair: Open Position
  • Trip Coordination Chairs: Multiple Open Positions
Upcoming Events
Tuesday, January 20
7:00p Board Meeting
Tuesday, February 10
Music-A-Thon

*You are receiving this email because you are currently registered with the Friends of Music at Hamilton International Middle School (FOMAHI).


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