Wantagh Musicians Celebrate Band Day

The collective music of more than 100 instruments reverberated through the halls of Wantagh High School as student-musicians in grades 5-12 performed during the ninth annual Band Day Festival Concert on Jan. 24.

Under the direction of conductors Mindy Dragovich and Dan Aviles, the students performed F.W. Meacham’s “American Patrol,” Brian Balmages’ “Rain” and “Sun Cycles” and Michael Sweeney’s “Port O’ Call.” The high school wind ensemble also performed Samuel R. Hazo’s “Parkour” for parents, administrators and board members.

“Band Day is an opportunity to bring all performing groups together,” Supervisor of Fine and Performing Arts Kelly Good said. “It is also an excellent way for the students to become acquainted with the middle school and high school teachers and to realize what they have to look forward to.”

During the day, there were clinics and sectionals in which the younger students were given tutorials about the various band instruments. The younger students also became more familiar with the upperclassmen through a variety of games. Dragovich told the parents and staff that she could not be prouder of the students’ performance, as well as the middle and high school instructors’ and Band Council’s assistance and efforts during Band Day.

“The older students acted like friends, mentors, and brothers and sisters, making the event so successful,” she said.

Submitted by Wantagh Schools

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