Posted by By Zenon Galvan, Writer
The New Paltz High School Band has now been around for 90 years, and in all that time it’s built itself quite the reputation. It’s notable for its different sections including the marching band during football season, the concert band in both the winter and spring, and its lively jazz band open to all students interested. The band is a sort of family for its members especially for those that participate for all 4 years of high school, all of the hard work and practice together makes for a strong sense of cooperation. Field trips include a trip to UAlbany to play for a football game, and a trip to Six Flags New England to get an official evaluation of the band as well as enjoying the rides at the amusement park. There’s also the NYSSMA (New York State Music Association) program where volunteering students are assigned solos and practice rigorously to be evaluated and receive a score and a ranking among other schools. Most of the students participate in them and it just comes to show the passion they have for the class, now let’s hear what some of the students have to say about it.
Mr. Samuel Newsome – Director
“When you play in the band, It’s important to know that you represent 90 years of band students that came before you. Being in the band means being part of that long maroon line. Students that come through the band program leave with a set of skills that helps them in all aspects of their lives. They are great communicators, they have empathy, and they know how to persevere through challenges.”
Trey Nitza – Senior
“Every year I’ve been here, the band seems to evolve and grow which is really fun to be a part of.”
Matthew Bulger – Junior
“I think it’s amazing the band has been running for 90 years, and it’s been a really fun experience that everyone should try.”
Jack Faure – Senior
“As a senior, it feels great to be part of that history. I take pride in being a sort of mentor to the freshmen, helping them become a part of the New Paltz High School Band’s history.”
You can see it in the pictures, over the past 90 years the band has evolved and grown. Though it started small it has gained significant size and popularity. Being in the band creates a sense of cooperation and teamwork that can be seen through its history and all of its years. It can be said with certainty that being in the band has impacted generations of students.
The Maroon 