My name is Marla Janak and I teach band.  I received my Bachelor of Arts degree from Midland Lutheran College in 1983 and my Master of Arts degree from the University of Iowa in 1987.  My Masters Degree was in Trumpet Performance and Brass History.  This is my 23nd year teaching band and my 13th year here at South Sarpy District 46.  I am very interested in new music technology and I have taken many classes on new software.  Besides teaching I also enjoy playing trumpet in small groups and dance bands.  Most of all of my honors and awards have been performing my trumpet at various contest or concert events. 

I believe that music needs to be part of each of our lives in some way.  Playing a band instrument opens the door to many fun activities that continue through your entire life.  Some of the most rememberable experiences were band trips and competitions.  My advice to students would be to just give it a try.  One never knows if you have the gift of music until you try a band instrument.