NW MI Arts & Culture Network

During July 2021, Forest Area Schools offered an intensive band camp for 32 middle school and high school students in preparation of our fall marching season and upcoming school year. The camp was lead by the music teacher and color guard coach along with nine other Michigan musicians with various levels of music education and performance experience. During this five day camp, students received large group instruction on marching technique, drill instruction, musicianship, teamwork, and more. The students also received small group/sectional instruction by their personal instrument instructors to improve their instrument specific skills. The week ended with a public performance for family and friends to showcase the learning that had happened and the final result of our 2021 marching show entitled “You Are Not Alone”.

This camp had many obstacles but was a huge success. One challenged we faced was the fact we are still living with the long term affects of COVID resulting in low numbers of participation in the music program, especially at the high school level. As a result, we expanded participation to our middle schoolers and added eight additional students. The opportunity for them to get support from our outstanding camp instructors helped them gain the skill necessary to join this higher level ensemble in a fun and meaningful way. This year’s show theme is “You Are Not Alone” with a focus on Mental Health Awareness. This concept has been embraced by our MS/HS building principal and has been a catalyst for change and awareness in our building for ALL students.