Hi! My name is Mr. Gist and I am the orchestra director here at Klein Intermediate School.

Our program begins in the fifth grade at our neighboring elementary schools where I and several other KISD Orchestra teachers hold twice weekly before or after school strings classes. Students continue to develop their skills on Violin, Viola, Cello, or Bass in more advanced classes at Klein Intermediate. These classes are held during the school day and provide the students not only with an opportunity to improve their playing, but also to participate in concerts and competitions such as Solo & Ensemble, All-Region Orchestra, the Galveston Isle Orchestra Festival, and UIL Concert and Sightreading Competition.

The students continue their studies in the orchestra program at Klein Forest High School. Klein Forest Orchestra is well-known for their accomplishments including performances as the Texas State Honor Orchestra, performances at Carnigie Hall and awards from the Grammy Foundation.

I am looking forward to a fun and productive year. Welcome to our web site!

...the arts are a core academic subject under the No Child Left Behind Act. I believe the arts have a significant role in education both for their intrinsic value and for the ways in which they can enhance general academic achievement and improve students' social and emotional development."