Ms. Sandra Hench has been the Instrumental Music Director at Western High School since 1992. Prior to that she taught 2 years in the Garden Grove District at Pacifica High School. In addition Ms. Hench spent three years teaching music at Bishop Montgomery High School in Torrance, CA. Ms. Hench completed work towards a Master's of Music Degree with an emphasis in flute performance and teaching credential at California State University at Long Beach. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music with a double emphasis in Flute Performance and conducting from the University of California at Santa Barbara.
 Sandra Hench has taught string orchestra classes at Cypress College, served for three years as the Orchestra Manager of the Orange County Youth Symphony Orchestra and taught for several years at the Arrowbear Music Camp. Ms. Hench is a freelance woodwind musician and clinician throughout Southern California and has performed in master classes with Jean-Pierre Rampal, Julius Baker, Loius Moyse, John Barcellona, Gary Woodward, Frances Blaisdell, Steve Kujala, and James Walker. Ms. Hench performed on french as a member of the Kingsmen Alumni Drum and Bugle Corps. Currently she performs on clarinet with the Laguna Beach Community Concert Band.
 
Instrumental Music Department Philosophy
Music Education is a primary means by which an educational institution can transmit to students the cultural heritage of society. Music transcends barriers of ethnic background, economic status, language, and even literacy in its power to reach the depths of the human soul. Experiences with music develop a student’s ability to make value judgments, to function logically as well as intuitively, and to utilize one’s innate creativity. Participation in performance organizations encourages initiative and leadership in students, stimulates goal-oriented thought processes, creates an appreciation and respect for the efforts of others, and assists students to develop a sense of responsibility to themselves, the organization, and in a broad sense, society.
We recognize that few high school musicians make a music career. However, the mental discipline and thought processes required in the study of music are applicable in all fields of endeavor.
 
General Objectives

• To make participation in instrumental music available to all students at  Western High School.
• To develop musical experiences that enhances students’ overall educational experiences.
• To provide a suitable background in music instruction for those students who elect to continue the study of music after graduation.
• To develop a life-long appreciation for music and continuation of musical activities.
• To develop performing organizations that are a source of pride for the individual, the school, and the community.

Welcome Message from Ms. Hench
 
Dear Parents, Guardians and Students:
 
     To consistently achieve and maintain the high standard of excellence desired by this organization, members and parents should familiarize themselves with the regulations, procedures and traditions of the band and color guard. It is hoped that some of the questions always prevalent with a band will be answered in the handbook. If a problem or question not covered in the handbook should arise, please contact me for an explanation.
     As we approach the new academic year, I would like to share my enthusiasm with you concerning the 2010 version of the Western High School Pioneer Regiment. We have a solid representation of returning upperclassmen and a group of new instrumentalist and guard members who show great promise. It is obvious the dedication and commitment of the veteran members has positively affected the entire program for the future. The Regiment Boosters and Western H.S. administrators have been an integral part of our success, and we recognize what an important role you have played in our continued growth and development.
     We are constantly reminded today’s young people are faced with many challenges including extreme changes in their physiological, emotional, and social world. It is vital they have an anchor of certainty, and our music department provides this important foundation.
Much more education happens behind the scenes than most people realize. In addition to learning music and performance skills, students reinforce their self-discipline, appreciate the rewards produced by their dedication, and understand the power of working together for a group goal. In truth, they are learning about themselves and translating this awareness through their expressive art form – music/color guard. They are being groomed for a successful life.
     Band and color guard actively engages our students in the creative process. They help write the text by creating the music. Each rehearsal we have the chance to explore and investigate new ways of artistically stating who we are and what we feel. Everyone is a star in the Pioneer Regiment, everyone has value, everyone counts, and everyone contributes. Band and color guard is for everyone.
     We are anticipating an impressive field season, and remind you that parents are the most important audience to every child. Your presence at our performances reinforces the importance of musical study for your son or daughter and their fellow musicians. Our band and guard program cannot exist without the support of you. Band and guard parents provide the tools of every trade so our students can enjoy an endless source of practical knowledge and wisdom unselfishly shared with our musical community. Without fail, everyone has something to give. However, your most important contribution will always be your presence. Simply being involved sends a powerful message to your son or daughter. The ongoing success of our program is in direct proportion to the support of our parents. We need you.
We welcome you to the most enthusiastic and effective support group in our community, the Western High School Band Boosters. I urge you to attend our meetings, become an active member of the various committees, and join the ranks of a wonderful “band of parents” who ensure our students are at the front of life’s parade.
 
Musically Yours,
Sandra D. Hench
Western High School
Instrumental Music Director

Contact:
Phone: 714-220-4035
hench_s@auhsd.us