“He who opens a school door, closes a prison.”

— Victor Hugo

When you see a harried teacher, thank them. When you see a harried band teacher, help them.

Eric, demonstrating his sum and total knowledge of a cummerbund

Band, like drama and art, is always on the chopping blocks at schools. Yet, it is one of the most important subjects because it really helps exercise the creative part of the brain. Music also stimulates more parts of the brain than any other human function.

A middle school band is especially difficult to organize. It takes an enthusiastic and energetic teacher, as well as as assistants, volunteers, motivated children and a supportive administrative.

I’m fortunate that two of my children go to a middle school with such an instructor, so it was the least I could do tonight to say ‘yes’ when she sent out a call for volunteers to help with tonight’s concert. Joining forces with several other volunteers and my wife Melissa, we formed the ‘cummerbund corps’. Our job was to make sure all of the estimated 150 students got cummerbunds and bow ties before the concert, and that they were all returned and organized after the concert. Not a hard job, but it takes a lot of volunteer ‘band aids’ to put on a concert with that many students.

Band is one of those subjects where the teacher needs vast amounts of help and support.

Be that help.  Be a band aid.

Was a part of the ‘cummerbund corps’ parent volunteers for the middle school band concert tonight. Also updated the reader board at my other daughter’s school.