Denver South High School Launches Student-Led Banda Club

Students at Denver South High School are foregoing their lunch breaks to participate in a newly formed Banda music club. The initiative, led by junior Liliana Rauenzahn, brings the vibrant sounds of Banda music – originating from northern Mexico – to the school.

A Passion for Banda Music

Club Origins and Student Dedication

Every Friday, the fifth floor of Denver South High School comes alive with Banda music as students practice and learn together. Rauenzahn spearheaded the creation of the club, driven by a desire to share a significant part of her heritage.

“Something that’s so nostalgic from my childhood and such an important part of who I am and seeing the rest of the school enjoy it and support it,” Rauenzahn said.

Teacher Support and Collaboration

Band teacher Kyle Dobbins provides crucial support to the student-led group. He offers a rehearsal space and even participates by playing the trombone.

“I basically told them I’ll play trombone and I’ll give you a spot to rehearse,” Dobbins explained. “They have run the rehearsals. I don’t know anything about this music.”

Celebrating a Unique Initiative

Appreciation for Teacher's Openness

Rauenzahn expressed her gratitude for Dobbins’ willingness to embrace a genre different from the school band’s usual repertoire. “It’s just really special,” she said. “Not a lot of students start something like this. I think it shows a lot about Mr. Dobbins.”

Dobbins shared his pride in the students’ accomplishment, stating, “I’m so proud of them, they’ve done an amazing job.”

Existing Interest in Banda Music

Dobbins noted that the school already had an informal connection to the genre. “We’ve even had students here that play Banda music in the parking lot at lunch,” he said.

Student Commitment

Rauenzahn, who enjoys a variety of music including country, finds the Banda club particularly rewarding. One student even remarked, “It's weird — I’d rather be here than eat lunch. I’m starving, but it's all good.”