Sen. Jett Welcomes Local School Bands to Capitol to Commemorate America 250

OKLAHOMA CITY— Senator Shane Jett, R-Shawnee, welcomed the high school bands from Tecumseh Public Schools, North Rock Creek Public Schools, and Meeker Public Schools to commemorate the United States Semi quincentennial at the Oklahoma State Capitol. The bands united for a grand-scale performance on May 12, 2026.                                                                                          

The combined bands from the three Oklahoma school districts performed a specially commissioned work to celebrate America's 250^th anniversary. The piece, titled A Vast Future, was composed by Jackson Anderson of Moore, Oklahoma, and echoes themes of optimism, resilience, and future possibility that have defined American identity for centuries.

The performance by the students at the Oklahoma State Capitol marked the official premiere of this piece written specifically for the United States Semi quincentennial (America 250), commemorating 250 years since the nation’s founding in 1776. 

Jett extended appreciation to John Outon, Band Director at Tecumseh High School, who played a key role in coordinating the collaboration. Mr. Outon was recognized as the East Central Oklahoma Band Directors Association Band Director of the Year in early 2026 and has a strong track record of fostering musical excellence and community partnerships.

The Shawnee Senator also expressed appreciation to Tecumseh Superintendent Robert Kinsey, North Rock Creek Superintendent Blake Moody, and Meeker Superintendent Jeff Pruitt for their support of the Capitol performance and for encouraging students’ participation in the nation’s semi-quincentennial festivities. 

Jett also thanked the composer, Jackson Anderson, an Oklahoma-based composer, conductor, educator, and adjudicator known for his work in wind band music. A proud “Okie,” Anderson built a career writing accessible yet engaging pieces for school and community ensembles. His compositions, such as The Great Land Run, often draw on American themes, history, and regional pride. Anderson’s selection for this commission highlights the strength of Oklahoma’s music education community.

This event exemplified how school bands serve as cultural ambassadors, connecting students, families, and communities through live music. By commissioning and premiering original work, these Oklahoma programs contributed something lasting to the national America 250 celebrations. 

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