Denton ISD Our Impact In Your Community Magazine Winter 2015-2016 | Page 21

grounds. There may be a language barrier,
cultural differences and all that, but
everyone can see something in a painting,
admire a work of art or appreciate music.”
Citing the Russian ballet as an example, Mr.
Tichenor added that other countries often
provide different vantage points of their
own environments through fine arts.
When asked about Mr. Tichenor’s
contribution to his program, Mr. Woolery
and Denton ja students said both the
physical gift of the drum set and the former
ambassador’s time were priceless.

Members of Denton High School’s jazz bands take a group
photo with former U.N. Ambassador Warren Tichenor (at
back left in white shirt). Mr. Tichenor is a former Bronco band
member, having played in the Denton stage band, the
precursor to the school’s current jazz bands.
PHOTOS BY ANTHONY TOSIE

“Any donation helps our program out, and
one as valuable as this drum set is incredibly
noteworthy, especially since it’s been
made with such care and craftsmanship,”
Mr. Woolery said. “On top of that, having a
former Denton High student who went on
to become a U.N. ambassador visit with
these kids is amazing, because it shows
them someone from their city can go on to
have a major role in the world.
Alex Souris, a senior drummer in the Denton
igh ja program, said the new e uipment
will benefit the entire group.

Warren Tichenor, a former United States ambassador
to the United Nations who is also a former Denton High
School student, speaks with a current student of the
school’s jazz program.

“Playing a great set of drums elevates
the whole ensemble – especially with the
huge, warm sound we get from this Pearl
[set],” he said. “I’m hugely thankful for
a donation like this. It’s a great honor to
have the former ambassador – a fellow
drummer, Bronco and friend to Denton
igh School ja
provide something as
thoughtful as this.”

Live

from

cmS

Catch Denton igh School s ja bands
perform at their next major concert on
Feb. 25 at Calhoun Middle School’s
historic auditorium. Calhoun s ja band
will join the Denton ja bands for the
concert. For more information, visit
www.dentonja .org.

Jesse Woolery (left), director of Denton High School
jazz bands, poses with former U.N. Ambassador Warren
Tichenor and a set of custom drums donated by the
19
former Denton High student. Mr. Tichenor attended 19
Denton ISD schools from 1970 to 1977 before moving.