Congratulations Loretto High School Band! Loretto High School Band has recently been invited to represent the state of Tennessee in the 2019 National Memorial Day Parade in Washington, DC. Below is a conversation with their band director Darrell Boston.
Where is Loretto High School? Located in Loretto, Tennessee about 1 hour and 45 minutes southwest of Tennessee
Who are the directors and staff at Loretto High School? Darrell Boston and Kalee Richardson, guard instructor
How would you describe your band program? The Loretto High School Band is the recognized music program of Loretto High School in Loretto, Tennessee. The Loretto Band provides a medium through which students progress musically, academically, and socially. Musicianship, attitude, attendance, punctuality, conduct, and a desire for excellence are absolutely expected from each student. Building from the bottom up, the Loretto Band has made great strides. Hard work has become the norm with positive attitudes, pride and a focus on music excellence. With hardworking students, active and involved parents, and a supportive community all combine to make it possible for Loretto High School to offer an outstanding array of musical opportunities.
What is the last piece your band played in a performance? The last piece we played would be from our Christmas concert and that was "Reindeer Galop."
Will you please share a fun moment or great memory? We were reading some new music and in the process of passing out a new piece my saxophone player asked, "Mr. Boston, what are you having for supper tonight?" I just looked at him and the class started to laugh and I said, "Why do you ask?" to which he replied, "You seem to know lots about food and I thought I would come join you." Well I said, "Just come on and we will go get us a steak." I really thought this was pretty funny. Guess they can tell I do like to eat.
Can you tell us one thing about your program or staff that people would be surprised to know? We truly are a family. We like most brothers and sisters have our problems but together we learn to real time problem solve and make it work. I end every rehearsal with what has become our motto. I tell the kids, "I Love You and There Is Nothing You Can Do About It."
Why do you believe it is important to be a part of TMEA? I am a member of TMEA because it is a group of music educators that will always be there to help and answer questions. There is tons of knowledge within our membership and it is nice to know when you need a friend or just someone to bounce ideas off of, you can always count current and past members to help.
Thank you for sharing with us! Best wishes to Loretto High School's students and staff for continued success. May we all try to create cultures for success and represent our state as well as they have.