To the Editor:
A huge round of applause to Gina Patrick (Orange elementary school band director) and her 119 band members for their incredible performance in the Memorial Day parade. I am not a parent, but a retired school band teacher. The students are from grades four, five and six of the three Orange schools. The fourth graders had only started learning to play their instrument in the fall but fit right in with the upperclassmen, memorizing two different songs. This massive group practiced marching only three times during evening rehearsals where keeping a straight line, even when making a right turn, was repeated dozens of times. I was impressed by the way the children responded to instruction and improved over the two-hour rehearsals.
I, and a few other adults, volunteered to march alongside to assist with any issues on the parade route. Again, I was impressed by this group. They were respectful and patient while waiting nearly 90 minutes to start marching. They played “You’re a Grand Old Flag” and a blues riff in triple meter absolutely beautifully. Their stamina and attention to staying in lines never wavered. For Gina Patrick and those wonderful musicians, this is a huge accomplishment. Congratulations and thank you.
You should be extremely proud.
Lois Sprague
Orange