Horizon Wind Ensemble performs at CMEA Conference

The Horizon High School Wind Ensemble, under the direction of Mr. Tim Dailey, achieved a remarkable milestone this past weekend by performing at the Colorado Music Educators Association (CMEA) Annual Conference. As an Honor Performing Group, this is one of the highest accolades a Colorado school music ensemble can achieve. This marks the first time in 30 years that the Horizon High School Wind Ensemble has been selected for this honor, making the achievement even more historic.

Held at the Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs, the CMEA Conference brings together the state’s finest musicians, educators, and school ensembles for an inspiring celebration of music education. When the Horizon Wind Ensemble took the stage, they delivered a performance that captivated and inspired attendees, showcasing the exceptional talent and hard work of the students.

This achievement is a testament to the extraordinary leadership of Mr. Tim Dailey, who is in his eighth year as Head Director of Bands at Horizon High School. A proud graduate of Adams 12 Five Star Schools, Mr. Dailey attended Legacy High School, where he was a student of J. Clayton Stansberry, the former Director of Bands at Legacy and current Electives Coordinator for Adams 12. Sharing the stage with his former director made the performance even more meaningful, underscoring the lasting impact that teachers have on their students.

Over the past eight years, Mr. Dailey has worked tirelessly to build a comprehensive and thriving band program at Horizon, which now includes three big band-style jazz ensembles, three concert bands, an active pep band, a pit orchestra, and the 130-member Marching Hawks. His commitment to excellence and fostering a supportive, student-centered environment has earned him the admiration and respect of students, parents, and colleagues.

The concert also featured Horizon’s Associate Director of Bands, Mr. Alex Duran, who plays a vital role in the success and excellence of the Horizon High School music department. The collaboration of Mr. Dailey, Mr. Duran, and Mr. Stansberry highlights the power of mentorship, community, and the ongoing tradition of musical excellence within Adams 12 schools.
Beyond the CMEA performance, the Horizon Band Program continues to make waves in the music community, with an upcoming international trip to perform in the 2025 St. Patrick's Day Parade in Dublin, Ireland. Under Mr. Dailey’s guidance, Horizon students are not only achieving musical success but also developing a lifelong passion for music.

The Horizon Wind Ensemble’s selection as an Honor Performing Group is a shining example of what can be accomplished through dedication, community support, and a shared love of music. Congratulations to Mr. Dailey, Mr. Duran, and the entire Horizon High School Wind Ensemble for this incredible honor!

Special thanks to the Horizon High School community for submitting this Five Star Story.

This story exemplifies our ELEVATE Focus Area: Diverse Learning. Sharing stories of how students receive engaging learning experiences and the focused-attention they need through appropriate student-to-staff ratios and varied programming.