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PARENTS' LETTERS
From other parents (Click on a name to see their letter)
Bob Byrne
To
Prospective New Members of the Kennesaw Mountain High School Marching Band,
and to their parents…
I have been a
“band parent” for my two daughters for the better part of the last 10
years. In that time, I have discovered a love of marching band that I never
knew existed, even with my years of participation in drum and bugle corps as
a young person. Band really has become addictive as an activity for not
only my girls, but for me as well.
I think having
children in high school band is a little different than having them in most
other athletic or artistic activities, especially for these three reasons:
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The level of effort and hard
work on the part of the kids is extraordinary, far more so than any sport
I’ve ever been around or involved in;
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The sheer number of parents who
are intimately involved in the actual operations of the organization is
considerable;
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The emotional bonding between
the parents, staff and the kids is indescribable.
I am convinced
that the kids in the KMHS band are truly the cream of the crop. They have
learned from the best instructors and music educators in the world, and I
don’t mean just music and drill. You notice right off that these kids hold
their heads a little higher, walk with a notable air of confidence, and
shine among their peers a little brighter each and every day, because they
are held to a standard of excellence in everything they do that few other 15
to 18 year old kids are ever asked to even attempt. For them, nothing
is impossible. Their work ethic is remarkable, and it shows in the numerous
achievements they’ve attained for such a young organization. And most
importantly, they truly care for each other, and all seem to just love being
in band!
As a band
parent, I’ve gained a heightened level of admiration and respect for my
girls, as well as their fellow band and color guard members, through my
participation in the band organization. I mean, I knew they were good – but
I didn’t know they were THIS good! Maybe the best thing I can
say about this is that I think I’m a better parent for their being in band.
It’s a great feeling to be so inspired by your own children!
Kids can be
involved in lots of things in high school to help make them more
well-rounded as young adults. But membership in the champion
Kennesaw Mountain High School Marching Band, in and of itself, is special.
A tradition of excellence has been quickly established, and every student
and parent who comes into the program for years to come has the opportunity
to make their unique mark in a very special organization, and reap the many
rewards that await.
When they
announce at the end of every Bands of America competition that these kids
are all “winners in life”, it’s not just a corny expression. At
Kennesaw Mountain, it’s really the way it is.
Bob Byrne
Proud KMHS
Band Parent
Class of
2005
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