High School Band

By Steven Gallo

On Tuesday, March 3, the high school band, under the direction of Mr. Eric deWeber, eagerly boarded a bus bound for Orlando with instruments and uniforms in tow. After months of practice and preparation, the students were excited to set out on their long-awaited trip to Disney World.

"We were so excited and honored to see the high school band in Disney, and we enjoyed the performance tremendously"
-- Mrs Emily Gallo

The band attended a clinic at Epcot on Wednesday morning where they had the special opportunity to work under the direction of renowned conductor, Dr. Mike Davis. From playing classic Disney tunes to learning about various musical techniques, the students truly benefitted from the constructive clinic. In addition, they had the chance to experience a studio session where they recorded a few songs including a short soundtrack for a Disney movie clip. They were even visited by Mickey Mouse who made a guest appearance at the conclusion of the clinic!

That afternoon, the Boca Christian High School band led the Main Street Parade as they marched through the Magic Kingdom. As you can in the video below, the crowds lined up and applauded as the band made their way through the park, filling the air with music and some new drum cadences created by Boca Christian band members.

“We are so proud of the band and their accomplishments. They looked outstanding and sounded spectacular—it truly was a magical moment" she said.

Undoubtedly, Boca Christian was well represented before the hundreds of park visitors there as our “small band with a big sound” rang out the “Blazer Fight Song” as well as “In the Stone,” this year’s signature marching piece for the band. Following their performance, the band members enjoyed the afternoon off by exploring the park and having a blast on rides like Space Mountain among others.

"...getting musical feedback and advice from professional musicians exceeded my expectations as a music educator"
-- Mr Eric DeWeber

Their eventful trip didn’t end there, however. On Thursday morning, the students traveled to Skycrest Christian School in Clearwater to compete in the ACSI Band Assessment. Following an outstanding performance of three songs, the band received an excellent rating from the judges. “The experience of playing in different places, listening to different groups, and getting musical feedback and advice from professional musicians exceeded my expectations as a music educator,” said band director Mr. Eric deWeber. “The kids in the band performed for God's glory at both Walt Disney World and the ACSI Band Assessment. To say I am proud is an understatement.”

Congratulations, Mr. deWeber, on yet another successful year for the Blazer band. We thank God for their safe return and for a fantastic trip that the students will not soon forget.

© 2009 Mrs Emily Gallo. All Rights Reserved.