NORWICH – As part of the Norwich City School District Board of Education’s new focus on student life, education and finances, Monday night’s meeting found board members turning their attention to the NHS Field Band, education on the elementary level and the district’s transportation costs.
First-year field band director Jamie Carrier – joined by band members Tambria Schroeder and Jason Handy – presented the board with an update on the group’s 2011 season, which will wrap up with this weekend’s Carrier Dome performance.
Carrier, now in her fourth year in the district and a member of the band during her high school years, said the group has been “quite successful this year,” thanks to an experienced and knowledgeable staff. Directing this year’s show, based on the 1992 Walt Disney musical “Newsies,” has been a learning experience, added Carrier, who then turned the presentation over to Schroeder and Handy.
The pair of students breakdown of the band’s finances included a detailed summary of its costs and yearly budget of approximately $20,000: $8,000 in staffing; $1,100 in licensing rights; $2,200 each for music and drill writing; $4,000 in supplies and equipment; $1,000 for uniforms; $700 in NYS Field Band Conference dues and $500 for photos.
As in year’s past, the band participated in a number of activities in addition to its weekly competitions, including Band Camp and the Band-a-thon fundraiser, last weekend’s Fall Festival of Bands and home half-time performances throughout the varsity football season. According to Handy, the band is unique in that no musical background is required, it includes students grades six and up, and there are no substitutions – everybody participates.
“Growth through music also develops a great work ethic,” stated Handy. “You can’t be lazy in marching band ... everyone is crucial to the success of the band.”
On Saturday, the field band will give a final indoor performance at the Norwich Family YMCA, prior to Sunday’s Carrier Dome championship competition, added Schroeder.
Perry Browne Principal Jennifer Post was next to address the board, with an update on the school year to date. Of particular importance, said Post, was the implementation of the state’s Common Core standards.
