Marching Band is an extracurricular activity where people perform as a band. It’s a form of expression and exercise, and it creates a sense of responsibility, discipline, and community.
Joining the marching band can create lifelong friendships and skills. Some individuals from the marching band have stated that they have made many friends by joining– friends that will last a lifetime.
Graham Brown is a freshman trombone player who has been playing in the marching band for two years.
“[I like] Marching Band because, and this sounds cliche, but because it gives you a really large sense of community. When you’re doing it with a bunch of people you end up bonding with them and those are some of the closest friends that you make and it’s very rewarding because going to so many rehearsals with these people, doing the challenges with these massive expectations put upon your shoulders- it’s very rewarding,” he said.
The Marching Band has had 2 performances so far, and more to come. They are working extremely hard, and their work is paying off.
The name of their show is “A Tribute to Paul Alberta.” Paul Alberta died on March 30th, 2024 at the age of 82. Paul Alberta was a significant man to many people in the Norwood music community. He taught at NHS from 1963 to 2002 .
“He [Paul Alberta] was among the most influential in making Norwood’s music program,” said saxophone player, Riley Adams
“It’s really important because he [Paul Alberta] died recently and is important to a lot of people and directors around the area and state,” said Graham Brown.
Marching band director, Steven Conant says, “Our program this year is a tribute to Paul Alberta, former director of fine arts of Norwood Public Schools. He taught here from 1963 to 2002 so a lot of this program is hinged on the work that he did over the length of his career. Unfortunately, he passed away this past March and I decided, pretty much entirely my own decision, that we were going to design a show as a tribute to him and what a marching band would have looked like in the 1970s, when Norwood was really at its A-Day, in its largest numbers.”
Being part of a Marching Band and performing in front of the community not only allows students to showcase their musical talents and dedication but also have a strong sense of camaraderie and belonging, having a deep pride and connection to their town and community.
According to Graham Brown, “Being a part of Norwood Marching Band kind of makes you feel a lot more connected with the town, just because, you know, you’re wearing Norwood colors and performing for town members but also being in parades like Norwood day and Veterans Day, it really gives you Norwood Pride.”
Steven Conant is the NHS Marching Band director and conductor for the last 21 years at NHS. Students in the marching band reflected on how he is a great director. People find him a very influential teacher who takes great leadership in his directing role. He is a dedicated man with a lot on his plate, who takes the time to influence and strengthen the band.
Gio Romero, a freshman who recently joined the Color Guard said, “Mr. Conant is a great conductor and director. He helps all of us through it. He always gives us feedback when we need it.”
Conant finds the marching band to be a great place for growth in students when they join. They learn many new skills, not only being able to play the instrument itself. People who join learn about time management because they have such a tight schedule. Marching Band sets kids up for success in the real world.
“The big thing that I always mention is time management. You know that on Tuesdays and Thursdays that you have a 6-9 rehearsal, you have to be here at least 15 minutes before rehearsal starts because to be early is to be on time, to be on time is late, and to be late is inexcusable, that’s kind of our mantra. We have to be here so we can really max out that 3-hour window of time. And students have to be prepared to get their homework done. You do your homework on your own time. Figure it out. It’s really good for setting students up with structure. It starts to set them up with a hopefully positive workflow for the school year. They have to learn that balance,” said Conant.
Many members of the Marching Band say they enjoy the competitive aspect of their activity. Competing alongside friends is an aspect that many members share that they enjoy. The band plays with a sense of enjoyment and accomplishment. The people in the marching band take a lot of pride in their work and have a sense of enjoyment towards it.
April Carey, a freshman who has been playing the flute for 2 years, said “I needed to do something. I like the team building. It’s really fun. And it looks good on college resumes.”
“It’s a really good [activity] because you get to meet up with your friends, not just in school, and it’s a good community thing. I do enjoy it,” said Ridley Lomino, a vibraphone player.
