General News: Adults and Children Make Music Together
Brass and reed instruments sound good together.
Father and son on guitar.
Is that a basson in a mother's hands?
Percussionists kept the beat.
Band director Kessler helped everyone keep time.
By Steve Kessler
On April 9, 2008, the Cornwall Central Middle School Band added quite a few new members to the group. However, these new band members were a bit too old to be in middle school. This is the third annual “Bring Your Family to a Band Rehearsal” night that I have organized as band director. The response was great.
Over 45 adults and students showed up for the band practice. Most of the parents admitted that they hadn't played their instrument since they were their children’s ages, but this night was too special for excuses. Every instrument was well represented. From bassoons to guitars and tubas to violins! Even those parents that had little to no musical training were able to shake a tambourine with the band.
The band was also very pleased to have Major Joe Martellaro (trumpet) join them along with his son Jon (percussion) and daughter Zandra (saxophone). Major Martellaro has just returned to the States after an extended stay in Iraq.
The music ranged from Highlights from Pirates of the Caribbean to Queen’s We Will Rock You. The group had such a good time making music that there was even talk about taking this to the next level and forming a community band right here in Cornwall.
One mother proudly stated, “I had so much fun last night! Thank you to Mr. Kessler for organizing this memorable evening.”
The success of the event suggested the idea of possibly forming a community band for Cornwall.
After this joint rehearsal with parents and students, the extent of the musical talent right here in the community was clear. Everyone who participated had a great time and enjoyed making music with their child. The children loved watching their parents experience a little of what they do at school. Adults who want to get more actively involved with making music in our schools, or in a community band, are welcomed to contact [email protected].
