Music rings through the halls of Central High once again.  This music is not just the product of every young person's new gadget (the Ipod), but more so the evidence of a hopeful new band program.  In years past, Central High was home to one of the best band programs in the state.  After decades of come-and-go band directors that made for a program full of ups and downs, the Central High School Band is finally progressing again. 

CHS Band Performs a Christmas Concert

However, current band director Dana Smith faces the reconstruction of a neglected program and the obstacles of creating an interest in the art of music.  “The Central High band is well on its way to once again becoming ‘The Pride of Morgan County’,” says Ms. Smith.  A young optimist, Ms. Smith relates well to students and helps them accomplish their goals.

Current endeavors under the direction of Ms. Smith include the Concert Band, the center of music activity.  Students prepare pieces throughout the year during class time and present a concert of several works at the end of each semester.  New pieces including selections from the school's vast music library make up the repertoire for each year.

Another new venture is a Jazz Ensemble.  At the beginning of this spring semester, students began participating in an after-school program to learn concepts of jazz and perform this intriguing genre of music.  Several of the jazz pieces will be included in the spring concert.

Although the band consists of only about twenty students, such a low number creates a close-knit atmosphere and the opportunity for each student to receive the needed attention to develop their musicianship.  “This band is a family; we’ve always been a family.  We can really work together,” says senior flutist Ashley Jones.

There is also hope for growth with the CHS band programs.  Dana Smith is also the band director at Central Middle School, spending mornings at the high school and afternoons working with students at the middle school.  Over thirty students in band classes at Central Middle School will be encouraged to participate in band when they arrive in high school.

In this day and time when music is quickly accessed by various media and ever changing technology, it is hard to find students willing to work toward making their own music.  But if one stops by the band room at Central High for a few moments, he will see (or more so, hear) that there is dedication to excellence and a desire to learn.