For most students, the end of the year is a time to wind down and finish up everything that was started during the previous school year. For the band, however, the hard work has only just begun. Not only do we have to prepare for the eighth graders who are about to enter the program, but the seniors must return for two more performances after they have graduated.
During the month of May, band students have their spring concert, graduation band, the Canal Days parade and performance, the Memorial Day parade, and the Marching Into Summer Festival. This is a pretty full plate for any teenager – not to mention AP exams, finals, field trips, projects and all the other end-of-year activities. This is by far the most difficult time of year for students, especially those in band.
Although it can be stressful, if managed correctly, this can be one of the most enjoyable experiences of the marching season. As new freshmen pour in through the gates of Crater Stadium, the rising senior class is given the chance to step into leadership roles within their section. May is a time for section leader interviews, majorette tryouts, and the selection of a new or returning drum major.
With all of the new opportunities that present themselves to band students during the last few weeks of school, many underclassmen gain the confidence to try out for their section’s leadership positions. Although it can be nerve-wracking, even just trying out for section leader can provide students with a chance to show that they are interested in leadership, as well as getting a feel for the interview process, which can help with future interviews both in school and in their own lives.
While all of these things occupy the minds of band students, the Steel Band and Jazz Band seasons also begin in May. These ensembles give students an opportunity to play music outside during the summer, while also giving the residents of Dover great music to listen to year-round. The Steel Band plays about twenty pieces per year, and members must memorize all of their music. The Jazz Band plays about thirty-five pieces per year, not to mention solos, percussion features, and other fun things. These two “bonus bands” also require seniors to return for additional practices and performances after they graduate. These may seem like additional stressors in a student’s already busy schedule, but they provide numerous opportunities to both make more music and for people to see their senior friends again.
If band students don’t take charge of their own schedule, the end of the school year will seem very demanding. However, it can also be a wonderful opportunity for growth and enjoyment.