Give it up for high school bands

By: Jay Minkin
Date: 10/31/2007
JUNE 13, 2007—Some of the best musical shows are being performed in your town every Friday night from now until the end of October. You may need to throw on a sweatshirt, hoodie, or fleece, but that’s all part of the ambience. There is something about the crisp autumn air, the bright lights, and marching bands that make an evening of high school football.

But you don’t need to be a football fan or a band parent to appreciate the fabulous horn sections, drum majors, and woodwinds that create a great half time show. I still recall one evening getting blown out of my bleacher seat when the tiny Revere High School marching band performed a medley of The Doors greatest hits. As everyone else seemed to be milling around getting popcorn, I just kept thinking to myself what a cool music director.

To watch these youngsters play “Hello I Love You” and “LA Woman” while moving around the stadium turf was an unexpected highlight.

The kids work hard, practicing in the summer and after school not only on the song arraignments, but also the precision regiment of the march. It all comes together for that precious 15-minute halftime show and adds to the fanfare of attending a high school game.

One of my railbird friends told me the Copley High School band is preparing to unleash their version of The Who’s epic rock opera Tommy. Ah...this one hits close to home. To hear “The Overture” “I’m Free” or “Listening to You” will have me reminisce about Roger Daltrey closing down the old Richfield Coliseum.
So next time you spend the evening under those Friday night lights, give the marching band kids a standing ovation and give them a cheer. Let them know you’re paying attention and appreciate their musical performance.

They are the future of rock ‘n roll and, thankfully, some are blessed to have great teachers.

Jay Minkin is an Akron area entrepreneur, music promoter and critic. For more of his thoughts on music, you may e-mail him at blues4bird@aol.com.

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