Howe Middle School Band

Howe Middle School Band Handbook

Staff

Family Pic

Mrs. Julie Cook

I was born and raised in northwest Oklahoma. I received my undergraduate degree from Northwestern Oklahoma State University in Alva and my Master's Degree in Music Education from The University of Oklahoma in Norman. I am blessed with an awesome husband of 35 years and three daughters and a son-in-law. We have one dog. I love to garden, sew, and travel. This will be my 15th year here at Howe ISD.

Email Julie Cook

Degrees and Certifications:

  • BME: Northwestern Oklahoma State University

  • MME: University of Oklahoma

  • Certified Kodaly Educator through level 2

Mr. Bilyeu

Mr. Bilyeu

Mr. Bilyeu attended Baylor University where he received a Bachelor's of Music Education in 2011. While at Baylor, Mr. Bilyeu had the honor of performing with the Baylor Wind Symphony, Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble and Golden Wave Marching Band. He has had the honor of directing many award winning bands in the North Texas Area and has been blessed to have many wonderful and talented students. In 2016, Mr. Bilyeu began his tenure at Howe ISD where he directs the 7th grade band, teaches all 5th and 6th grade brass students, and assists with directing all other ensembles at Howe Middle School and Howe High School.

Currently Mr. Bilyeu lives in Van Alstyne with his beautiful wife, Christina Bilyeu, and their son JJ.

Email Mr. Bilyeu

Degrees and Certifications:

  • Bachelor's of Music Education, Baylor University

  • Music EC-12 Texas Teacher Certification

Mr. Manuel

Mr. Manuel is the director of percussion at Howe ISD. He attended Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana where he earned his Bachelor's of Music Education. While attending NSU, he performed with the Spirit of Northwestern marching band, wind symphony and percussion ensemble. Over the summers, he competed in Drum Corps International with Forte Drum and Bugle Corps and Louisiana Stars Drum and Bugle Corps.

Prior to his appointment at Howe ISD, he was the director of percussion at Kemp High School. Under his direction, the percussion ensemble earned superior ratings at UIL Solo and Ensemble contest and advanced to the state contest in 2019 and 2020. The drumline was awarded “Best in Class Percussion” at the Whitney Marching Festival in 2019. The Kemp percussion section was also awarded “Best in Class” at the Drums On Point Drumline Competition in 2017.

Mr. Manuel currently resides in Melissa, TX. When not teaching, he enjoys running, watching football and spending time with friends and family.