Band Stuff

I received an e-mail today introducing the new Michigan Marching Band director. Interesting, huh? Well, it's interesting to Mpls Ju and I, but probably no one else. I think it was Scott Boerma's third attempt to get the job as director of the MMB, but probably just the first time he was taken seriously. Boerma ultimately left his job as a highly esteemed high school band director in southeast Michigan to direct the Eastern Michigan band a few years ago in order to round out his resume for this job, and it ultimately paid off.

Why do I care? Well, his wife was my high school band teacher, and I think they are both great people. I have no idea if Boerma will be more like Nix, who focused on entertainment over substance (good), or Dr. Tapia (director 1999-2000), who focused on producing a refined and technically strong, yet very boring halftime shows (bad). I guess we'll find out over the next few years.

On the bright side, I'm sure I'll see my high school band director every time I go back for a game, which is exciting. I used to see her on weekends in college when we were doing a show that was musically arranged by her husband. I suspect that she'll be at most games now.