submitted by Bill Gaillard
By the Governor’s proclamation the month of March each year is designated to celebrate the school music programs in the State of New York.
This is the 43rd year of this celebration that began as Music in Our Schools Day on March 14, 1973. [private]At that time we in Hoosick Falls hung a banner across the hall, gave out pencils and instrument case stickers to remind students of the importance of a musical education. These items were obtained through the National Music Educators organization (MENC at that time).
What began as an event for the day became a month-long celebration thereafter. As the words of the Governor’s proclamation said, “Music is the universal language through its ability to move and inspire us.”
Though not in the month of March, the Community Band and Symphonic Band from HFCS will present their fourth annual combined band concert on Wednesday, April 13, at 7 pm in the school auditorium. The two bands have been preparing for this event and will combine for a rehearsal on April 6.
The music students from HFCS have been very active, with choral performances at Carnegie Hall in NYC as well as Troy and instrumentalists performing solos as the NYSSMA solo festivals and the bands at the festivals for major organizations. The jazz band has provided many enjoyable programs for the local community.
Hoosick Falls has a long musical tradition including the Eberle brothers of singing fame during the “big band era.” That tradition continues with the Stardusters of Hoosick Falls, whose vocalist is Krissy Fauler.
The combined concert provided by the HFCS Symphonic Band directed by Rob Allen, and the Hoosick Falls Community Band directed by Bill Gaillard. will offer a short program followed by a combined band of over 80 musicians offering music from Lion King and other enjoyable works. All of this provided for community enjoyment on April 13, at 7 pm at HFCS.[/private]