“Belief” is a powerful concept.
“I went to one of Mr. Saucedo’s music clinics. He is awesome!” It was Loyola
Marymount University’s music director and he was in a full court press to recruit
Kristen into LMU’s pep band. “I don’t even have a mellophone!” she said. “We’ll get
you one.” — “I haven’t played one in two years!” — “Given where you have come
from, I believe in you!”
“Belief” carries far and wide.
Carmel’s Performing Arts programs are renowned nationally. Not only because of names
like Saucedo, McIntosh, Pote, Han, Miller Queen, Kreke, Cook, Young, and Tookolo,
etc., but more importantly, for the consistently innovative and impactful
educational experiences these talented educators drive year after year. They start
by teaching their students to believe – then giving them some tools, and a sense of
pride – then finally letting them lead the way.
“Belief” builds from scratch – doesn’t have time to relax.
I visited the Carmel Marching Greyhounds last Friday to see what they have been up
to. Besides the temperature (it was a 100 degree day with high humidity), and the
presence of the largest drum on the planet (Purdue University is celebrating 125
yeas) — the kids, directors, staff and parents were all in a full court press
themselves. There were signs of purpose filled traction everywhere – starting with
the brightest of music scores I have heard in some time – to the guard’s
choreographed strength and grace — to the logistics engine of the field crew — to
seeing a bassoonist prepping for her solo (yes they have a bassoonist in a marching
band!) — to the rich complexities of the front ensemble, brass and winds – to the
heartbeat of the drum line. They all were driving on a common purpose of creating
their own unique creative vision of excellence. And despite the fact that they are
building a new show from scratch, they seemed highly focused and way ahead of
schedule for their season.
“Belief” knows no boundaries.
Even though the kids were out in the sweltering heat for hours, they all seemed
undaunted by any physical or mental challenges in this environment. It was very
apparent – because all of them were smiling! The smiling part was not a surprise.
After all, these are not your ordinary kids – these are the Carmel Marching
Greyhounds.
The kids were testing a different sweaty and smelly boundary that night. Many seemed
to have fun playing with their parents by annoyingly hugging them! The funny thing
was that none of the parents seemed to mind! The reactions of the sweaty teenagers -
priceless. Go Parents!
“Belief” makes things real, and makes things feel.
Doug Pileri
September 5, 2011
Dynamic Marching
Walled Lake Marching Band