Kathleen: Clark Prep Wins 3rd Place in "Class Got Brass"

Joseph S. Clark Preparatory High School earned Third Place in the Class Got Brass music competition organized by New Orleans Jazz &Heritage Festival and Foundation, Inc. on Sunday, March 24. From the Foundation that hosts Jazz Fest, Class Got Brass completed its second successful year in supporting the New Orleans community in such an inspiring way. Clark Prep won $4,000 by coming in 3^rd place – funds that will be spent on instruments, their repair and other Marching Band needs.

After speaking to Mr. Franklin, Band Director, about what this prize money can do, he said it will not only help the program to buy new instruments, but also allows the students “to see that these are the types of things we can achieve at Clark Prep when students work together.”  Mr. Franklin also explained that the students wanted to be successful in this competition so they collaborated to make it happen, and “when they (the students) have a high desire to do something and work together, all things are achievable at Clark Prep.”

There are many people proud and excited to see Clark Prep begin to show its musical roots again. Our Marching Band and Majorettes participation in Mardi Gras parades was extremely well-received by alumni and all of those throughout the community who know about the school’s history and its strong revival. From local policemen to tourists and now the Jazz & Heritage Foundation, it’s no mystery that those who listen to Clark Prep like what they are hearing.

Class Got Brass is a competition open to all middle and high schools in the state of Louisiana. For Clark Prep to come in Third Place is a huge accomplishment that showcased our talented Marching Band. O. Perry Walker came in First Place with Kipp McDonogh 15 as the Second Place winner. 

Check out the video of "Class Got Brass!" 

Kathleen Duffy is the AmeriCorps VISTA Outreach Coordinator for Clark Prep High School.