For many, band is more than just a musical pursuit; it’s a transformative journey filled with camaraderie, discipline, and personal growth. As I sit here, the day after our 2024 All State Band Festival, I’m reminded of the numerous individuals whose lives have been enriched by their participation in band. From large metro areas to quaint rural communities, the spirit of music resonates deeply, weaving its melody into the very fabric of our society.
The countless hours spent by so many individuals helped to assure this year’s All State Festival was a success. We kicked off the festival with our President Elect, Keith Anderson doing a fantastic job with our Solo Festival. I commend the eighty two participants in the prelims, who poured their hearts and souls into their performances. Congratulations to Thomas Washer for his first place finish along with our other finalists: Benjamin Bailey, Noah Bender, Madeline Cagle, Kenimer Lewis, Riley Morris, Gloria Phillips, Landon Roberts, Rachel Strong, and Elijah Winslet. To celebrate 25 years of this event, beginning in 2025, the Solo Festival winner will be awarded the Glenn Spiller Solo Festival Scholarship. Thank you Glenn for the vision you had for this festival!
Our All State Band conductors were absolutely incredible and gave so much of themselves to our students. I am so appreciative of our hosts and percussion techs; Red Band conductor Mr. Richard Floyd was hosted by Jon Bubbett and Rebekah Hammock, White Band conductor Dr. Sue Samuels was hosted by Heather Henson and Doug Teuscher, Blue Band conductor Mrs. Carol Brittin Chambers was hosted by Damon McAllister and Alex White, Red Band MS conductor Mrs. Cheryl Floyd was hosted by Tim and Connie Hammond and Josh Lynch, and White Band MS conductor Mr. Mickey Smith Jr. was hosted by David Caddell and Courtney Langford. The Percussion equipment was organized and provided for all of our bands by Red Band Keith Anderson of James Clemens HS; White Band Jack Albert of Sparkman HS; Blue Band Kevin Smart of Bob Jones HS; MS Red Band Andrew Kirk of Huntsville HS; and MS White Band Clay Sloan of Austin HS.
Thank you to our clinicians, Dr. Demetrius Scott, Dr. Ed Nichols, Greg Faulkner, Chris Pennington, Matt Weaver, Nick Staff, Jared Holland, and Jonathon Steinman. They brought some wonderful ideas to the discussion! I also need to thank the awesome exhibitors that we had! The venue was always busy and it is exciting to see new products and concepts being brought into our band world!
“To everything, there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven.” Thank you to the members of the Rho Chapter of Phi Beta Mu for their commissioned composition “There Is a Season” by Dr. Larry Blocher, in honor and remembrance of our friend and colleague, Robert W. Smith. The premier performance by the Red Band was a fitting tribute to Robert’s history, whereas as a high school trumpet player, he performed in the Alabama All-State Red Band. In 2015, Robert returned to the All-State Festival as the conductor of the Red Band. Please continue to keep Robert’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers.
As I reflect on the All State Band Festival and the broader impact of band programs in Alabama, I’m filled with a profound sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the dedicated members of the entire ABA Board, who tirelessly work behind the scenes to assure our students have opportunities to grow and experience musical moments that they will cherish for a lifetime. I am grateful to have served on the ABA Board with our outgoing District Chairmen Nathan Haskew D2, Dr. Travis Bender D4, Deanna Marshall D6 and Adam Brumberg D8. They have given of their time, energy and leadership selflessly, and it is appreciated by all of us.
In the end, band is not merely an extracurricular activity; it’s a way of life—a testament to the power of music to uplift, inspire, and unite us all. As we look to the future, let us continue to cherish and celebrate the transformative magic of all things band in Alabama and beyond. May you all have a peaceful ending to the school year, filled with gratitude for all that we have accomplished.