When music is amplified, its reach is much further. Likewise, the bigger and more diversified an organization, the more it can accomplish.

 

Brand new to the Bridgeport High School Band Patrons is a “Community Members” designation, explained BHS Band Patron President Dr. Mike Hess.

 

“This allows members of the community to become a part of the band patrons as volunteers, even though they have no children in band programs,” he said. “This will strengthen and support music programs at Bridgeport High School.”

 

Anyone interested in joining forces with the booster organization – which oversees activities of the BHS Marching Band, BHS Concert Band and BHS Jazz Band – can contact Hess or another member of the BHS Band Patrons.

 

Just last month, the BHS Jazz Band made an appearance at the Marshall University Jazz Festival as the 2015 Honor Band. Also recently, 31 BHS Band members were named to the All-County Band and two members, Aika Takahashi and Lynsey Soule, received superior ratings at the regional solo and ensemble festival and earned spots in the All-State Band.

 

In November, the BHS Marching Band took to the streets of New York City as a featured unit in “America’s Parade,” a tribute to U.S. veterans (pictured). 

 

“It’s an exciting time for music at BHS,” Hess said.

 

The booster organization hosts a number of fundraisers throughout the year, all which combine to fund the various music programs. Those fundraisers include the annual fruit sale, Bridgeport Indian stadium blanket and flag sale, a fritti booth at the West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival and Jazzed for Valentine’s Day, a dinner/dance held at Bridgeport Conference Center.

 

At the 2015 event – which just took place Feb. 7 – upwards of $4,300 was raised, thanks to a supportive community, Hess said.

 

The BHS Band Patrons work with a budget of about $65,000, which encompasses uniform and instrument maintenance and repair, halftime show expenses, bus rentals, advertising and other miscellaneous costs.

 

To join the BHS Band Patrons, contact Justina Ogden at 304-203-1522.