Band Alumni Bulletin

Band Bulletin – Issue # 6 – April 10, 2024

A Letter from the Director

Dear Marist Band Alumni Members,

I would like to welcome all of you to the sixth issue of the Marist Band Alumni Bulletin! This bulletin will be used to help keep alumni band members updated about what is currently happening with the band program at Marist.

We just got back from our tour of New York late last week. We had such an amazing time, and we are so blessed and fortunate to be able to tour every year. We know this is in large part due to the band’s excellent reputation and all the work that you (band alums) put in during your four years here at Marist. We are now preparing for next year’s tour to Hawaii in March 2025!

As we get close to finishing our school year, the band is still busy with upcoming performance and events. We also will start our marching season in June with our Incoming Freshmen Band Camp, Drumline Camp, and Full Band Camp. If you know of any incoming freshmen students who may be interested in joining band, we would love to have them! Please have them e-mail me directly and I can send them all the information that they will need to sign up.

For this sixth issue, we are highlighting our New York Band Tour, the passing of former Marist Band Director, Mr. Rocco Carioto, as well as interviewing band alum and current Marist teacher, Ms. Claire Kelly. I hope you enjoy the feature!

I want to thank you for interest in the band, and I look forward to communicating with all of you. We plan to release this bulletin on a seasonal basis. If you know of any other Marist Band alumni who would like to receive this bulletin, please have them contact me directly via e-mail at creagh.andrew@marist.net. Thank you again for all your support!

Sincerely,

Mr. Andrew Creagh ‘04

Band Director, Marist High School

CURRENT STUDENT FEATURE: JULIA BISHOP ’27

Julia Bishop

Graduation Year-2027

Grammar School? St. Linus in Oak Lawn.

Instrument? Flute

What is your favorite thing about band?

My favorite thing about band is that I get to express my thoughts and feelings through music.

What are some other clubs, activities, and sports do you participate in? I am on the JV Poms and Dance Team. I am also in Cooking Club.

What is your favorite band moment so far?

My favorite band moment so far was playing at the Varsity Homecoming Football Game. We won!!

Band Tour Recap

New York Band Tour from April 1, 2024-April 5, 2024

Monday, April 1 Drive to New York

The band students arrived at Marist by 1:00 p.m. They brought their suitcases to the small gym for inspection. We then loaded the buses, and began our 14 drive to New York. On the way, we stopped for dinner in an area with multiple fast food options for the students to spread out and choose their own meal. After that, we loaded the buses, and most students fell asleep while en route.

Tuesday, April 2

When we arrived in New York, we met our tour director, Scott Dworken. Scott did a great job throughout the week, and his help was much appreciated. We headed to Radio City Music Hall, where the students were broken up into 3 groups, and we given a tour of the facility. It was a very interesting and great tour since students were able to go to the backstage areas and even on the main stage.

After the Radio City Music Hall tours, we headed to midtown Manhattan, where the students were broken into smaller chaperone groups and ate in the area for lunch. Then, we boarded our buses and head to the DiMenna Center for our Broadway Workshop.

The Broadway Workshop was wonderful! The students were led and directed by Ian Weinberger, who is the music director for Hamilton on Broadway. The students sight read and worked on “My Shot” from Hamilton. Mr. Weinberger did such a great job with the students, and was able to have them grow and stay engaged throughout the clinic. Then, we had one of the musicians from Hamilton come and rap and sing while the band played. It was a great experience for the kids!

After our clinic, we headed back to Rockefeller Center to look at the Top of the Rock, which is when the groups went up to the top of the building to view the city. However, with the rain and fog, it was a bit difficult to see overall. After that, headed to the Cutting Room, which was a rock and roll themed restaurant. We had the restaurant to ourselves, which was very nice. The students had a buffet-style meal, with chicken, pasta, vegetables, and dessert.

Once we finished dinner, we boarded the coaches and headed to our hotel in Newark. It was a very nice hotel, and they were very accommodating. We distributed the room keys, sent the kids up to the rooms, had our chaperone meeting, and had lights out. The kids were very tired since they came straight off the bus into a busy day.

Wednesday, April 3

The kids woke up at 7:00 a.m. and had breakfast in the hotel at 8:00 a.m. We had our own room for breakfast, and the students were able to eat eggs, sausage, potatoes, cereal, French toast, etc. Once we finished breakfast, we headed to Battery Park to go on the Staten Island Ferry. Again, the weather was rainy and foggy, so it was difficult to see, but the students made the best of it.

After the Ferry, we headed to the Financial District, in a large mall area, for the students to eat lunch. After lunch, we headed to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. It was an extremely moving museum, and the students were able to have a lot of time to view the exhibits. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to do the One World Observatory due to the weather, and so after the memorial, we transferred to Chinatown for some free time in our smaller chaperone groups.

After some shopping and more rain, we had dinner at the House of Joy in Chinatown. The students had a family-style meal, and they seemed to enjoy it. Following dinner, we headed back to the hotel for lights out.

Thursday, April 4

The students woke up at 6:00 a.m. to prepare for hotel checkout and to prepare for breakfast. Once the chaperones inspected each room, the students were sent down by rooms for breakfast.

Once we checked out of the hotel, we headed to Manhattan to the Intrepid Air & Space Museum. We had an extensive security search through our instruments and equipment. After that, we set up on the flight deck to prepare for our performance. Once we set up, we performed the following music:

-Metrodance

-Russian Sailor’s Dance

-Jupiter

-Excerpts from Appalachian Spring

-Highlights from Jersey Boys

After our performance, we packed everything up, got changed on the buses, and had our boxed lunch at the Intrepid. Then, we toured the museum for about an hour.

Then, we headed to Times Square for some free time in our small chaperone groups. The students were able to do some last minute shopping for about an hour and fifteen minutes. Then, we headed to Gayle’s on Broadway for our Broadway-themed dinner. At the dinner, the servers actually sang Broadway and movie music, so it was a very immersive experience.

Once we finished dinner, we headed to our Broadway show, Little Shop of Horrors. It was a GREAT performance, and the students really seemed to enjoy it. After the performance, we loaded the buses to head home. Once we got out of the city, we had the students change into their street clothes.

On the way home, either in New Jersey or Pennsylvania, our second bus had some minor malfunction issues. After an hour delay, we were back on the road. We had breakfast at some fast food areas, and after a few hours, we were home. We unloaded the truck, and dismissed the kids around 2:00-2:30 p.m. or so.

Thank You

First, I would like to thank all the parents for their sacrifice and helping pay for their student’s tour. This tour would be impossible without our parent’s dedication to their students and the band program.

I would like to thank our band tour chaperones for all their efforts in making this one of the best trips! The band chaperones were:

Mr. Mark Murphy

Mr. Jaime Ortiz

Mrs. Julie McDermott

Mrs. Melissa Klockow

Ms. Erin Laskowski

Mr. Patrick Keelan (Assistant Band Director)

The chaperones did an EXCELLENT job. They spent many days with our students and their help was invaluable. I truly could not do this trip without them.

I would also like to thank Bob Rogers Travel for helping plan the tour. Mr. Mike Wallace and Ms. Erin Harrah did great jobs with pre-planning for our tour. Scott Dworken (tour director) also was great on-site with assisting with the hotel, flight, truck and buses, meals, and transitions.

I would like to thank Mr. Patrick Keelan for his assistance with planning, accounting, and assisting with the entire tour. This was Mr. Keelan’s third trip and he did such an excellent job with everything!

From Marist, I would like to thank Mrs. Meg Dunneback, Mr. Larry Tucker, Mr. Marion Klatka, Mrs. Patti Derdzinski and Ms. Rita Hoffmann. I am lucky to work with such great people and I am very fortunate to work with people who are so dedicated to the band program and the students.

Lastly, I want to the all the band students for their hard work, kindness, good behavior, patience, and adaptability throughout the trip. I am so blessed and fortunate to work with such great students and I could not have been happier with how they performed and acted throughout the trip. I love my job as band director at Marist, and that is mostly due to the students.

This was a GREAT trip! This was a difficult trip due to the weather and traffic, but the students made the best of it. The students seemed to really have a great time and I was very proud of their performances, behavior, punctuality, attitude, responsibility, and diligence throughout the entire trip. The students really stepped it up for their events and I could not be happier with how the tour went. I received many comments from people in New York about how well-mannered and well-behaved the students were.

We are one of the only high school bands who are fortunate enough to attend a band tour every year. We can only do this from our support from our students, parents, and the Marist community. I am so happy with the students and I am looking forward to Hawaii next year!

Thank you all so much!!!

Mr. Creagh

Rocco Charles Carioto

Marist Class of 1978

Marist Assistant Band Director for 14 years

Marist Band Director from 2006-2008

Rocco Charles Carioto age 63; beloved husband of Angelica; loving father of Charles (Christina), Kassandra, Michael (Daniel) Carioto, and stepfather of Alexander Ruano; dear brother of Mary Ann and the late Andrew Carioto; fond uncle of many nieces and nephews. Rocco was the band director at Bishop Noll Institute, St. Casimir School, and St. Stanislaw School. He was also the pitcher for the Red Angels Baseball Team, and a member of the Knights of Columbus. Memorials appreciated in Rocco’s name to Bishop Noll Institute Band Program 1519 Hoffman St. Hammond, IN 46327. Visitation Friday February 23, 2024, 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Kosary Funeral Home 9837 S. Kedzie, Evergreen Park. Funeral Saturday February 24th, 9:45 am from Chapel to St. Bernadette Church, Mass 10:30 am; Interment Mt. Olivet Cemetery; Information 708-499-3223 or www.kosaryfuneralhome.com

Interview

Ms. Claire Kelly

Marist Class of 2016 and Current Teacher at Marist High School

When were you in band?

I was in band from 2012-2016.

What instrument did you play?

Flute

Favorite Band Story or Memory

Some of my favorite memories of band are the Fridays when we would hang out in the band room between school ending and our call time for the football games. We would go get food and sit in the hallway or band room just hanging out. Another one of my favorite memories was playing in the Thanksgiving Day parade every year. Even though it was freezing most years, it was a great way to start the holiday with all of my friends.

Favorite Tour

New Orleans (closely followed by New York City)

Favorite Piece of Music that you Performed as a Student

The Tell-Tale Heart

What are some similarities and differences between when you were in band and the band now?

Some things never change! For example, the band still sells chocolate and plays Christmas Festival every year. They are still the best band around. Though, the band continues to get better every year! They have so much more energy than we did at games and concerts. The band is still the greatest!

What do you do now?

I teach English at Marist. It is so fun to be back as a teacher!

What is some advice that you would give to the current Marist Band members?

It sounds cheesy, but the time really does go fast. Appreciate the time you have in band. I made many of my best friends in band, and I still talk to them every day. Those long game days in the band room or the hours spent practicing for the concerts, you are really making memories that will last you a lifetime. Embrace it! (And don’t take your phone out in the band room )

Upcoming Band Performances & Events

4/17/24-Spring Band Concert at 7:00 p.m.

4/18/24-Jazz & Percussion Concert in Marist Theater at 6:30 p.m.

5/17/24-Graduation Performance

Grade School Band Camp

June 17, 18, 20, from 8:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.

June 21 from 4:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Concert at 6:00 p.m. in the Theater. The concert should end around 6:45 p.m. at the latest.

Freshmen Band Camp

June 17, 18, 20, 21 from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

For all incoming freshmen band students

Drumline Camp

July 22-25 from 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Full Band Camp

August 5-8 from 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Marist Band Spring Concert

What: Marist High School Band Christmas Concert

When: Wednesday, April 17th at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Marist Main Gym

Cost: $5 at the door. Children 10 and under are FREE. Faculty & Staff are FREE.

The Marist High School Band presents its 59th annual Spring Concert on Wednesday, April 17 at 7:00 p.m. in the school’s main gym. Tickets are $5.00 and are available at the door. Faculty and Staff admission is free. The band will be performing a variety of works that are guaranteed to help celebrate the arrival of Spring.

Thank You!

Mr. Larry Tucker ‘79

Mrs. Meg Dunneback

Father Tom Hurley ‘85

Mr. Frank Manna

Mr. Marion Klatka

Mr. Marty Wirtz ‘72

Mr. Pat Dunne ‘98

Mr. Patrick Keelan ‘04

Mr. Tom Inzinga ‘84

Mrs. Irene Halko

Ms. Jen Luzzo

Ms. Noelle McDonnell

Ms. Patti Derdzinski

Ms. Rita Hoffmann

Mr. Pat Dunne ‘98

Mr. Brian Keane ‘91

Alumni Updates

Have you moved? Do you have a new job? Did you get married? Is there a new addition to your family? Let us know! https://www.marist.net/alumni/alumni-update/

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Do you know a Marist Band alum who would like to receive these seasonal Marist Band bulletins? If so, please have them e-mail Andrew Creagh at creagh.andrew@marist.net.

Band Alumni Bulletin Issue #5 – December 5, 2023

A Letter from the Director

Dear Marist Band Alumni Members,

I would like to welcome all of you to the fifth issue of the Marist Band Alumni Bulletin! This bulletin will be used to help keep alumni band members updated about what is currently happening with the band program at Marist.

At this time of year, we are preparing for our Christmas Concert. This always feels like a transitional season, since we are coming out of marching band. Our focus is always on ensemble playing, musical intent, and performing quality literature. Besides performing Leroy Anderson’s “A Christmas Festival,” we also perform orchestral transcriptions, marches, and other concert band pieces at our Christmas concert. We also perform other Christmas pieces and medleys to help ring in the season.

We have also been fortunate to be able to perform at many local area Catholic and public schools during the first half of the school year. To date, we have performed at St. Cajetan, St. Christina, Hamlin Upper Grade Center, Simmons Middle School, Infant Jesus of Prague, and St. Margaret of Scotland school. We are also scheduled to perform at many other schools during Catholic Schools Week in January.

For this fifth issue, we are highlighting our updated bulletin board project, sharing faculty and staff thoughts about the Marist Band, as well as interviewing band alum and current Marist Assistant Band Director, Mr. Patrick Keelan. I hope you enjoy the feature!

Sincerely,

Mr. Andrew Creagh ‘04

Band Director, Marist High School

CURRENT STUDENT FEATURE: Osmar Rocha-Patino

Graduation Year-2024

Grammar School? Hamlin Upper Grade Center

Instrument? I currently play the trombone. I played the clarinet my freshman year but later then switched to the trombone starting my sophomore year.

What is your favorite thing about band?

My favorite thing about the band is being able to feel that family connection all the time. It truly makes you love the band more than you could ever imagine. I remember hating band since middle school so much. Once I came to Marist, I grew a passion for it, and it was mostly all because of the people in it. This has helped me grow as a musician and to be able to find peace in music.

What are some other clubs, activities, and sports do you participate in?

I am a eucharistic minister for our school masses along with a mass reader every Friday mornings at our chapel. I have been part of the soccer program since my freshman year but decided to not play this year due to my preparation for the 2023 Chicago Marathon with a sub 3:30 attempt. Besides just being in the Marist band, I am also in the jazz band for Marist. But outside of Marist jazz I play for the Moraine Valley Community College jazz and concert band. Lastly, I am part of the National Honor Society.

What is your favorite band moment so far?

My favorite band moment so far must be playing Twist and Shout at half-time during a heavy rain last year. It was truly something that gave me goosebumps and something to remember about.

College plans?

My college plans right now are to study computer science with a minor in music.

Band Bulletin Board Project

We have made progress on our Marist Band Timeline bulletin board! Please see the picture below:

We would really like to add more color photos and tour photos from the past if possible. If you have some, please e-mail them to creagh.andrew@marist.net. Thanks so much and keep those pictures coming!

Faculty Thoughts About the Marist Band

How does the Marist Band impact the school?

They bring so much energy and fun to the pep rallies, football games and school events.-Eve Gambla

I sincerely appreciate the ways in which the Marist Band promotes school spirit at athletic contests, pep rallies, and state finals sendoffs. The band performances at our football games help create a great atmosphere and experience for our students, parents, alumni, and fans. The band also connects prospective students with Marist via their grammar school night during the football season and during winter concerts in the main gym. In addition, their appearances at various parades and public events are a great marketing tool for Marist H.S. and our music program. Finally, the Band’s in-school performances at mass, school concerts, and senior awards night are an important contribution to our school.-Eric Simpson

There is nothing like a marching band to invoke school spirit. From the football games, to marching in the hallways, to drum line state send offs, the Marist High School band is the soundtrack of all our high school memories!-Karen Ramirez

The band is the backbone of the school! They set the tempo and the vibes for every and all event. They bring the energy!-Kiera Hillard

They are one of the best thing at Marist! They energize every event with their music! And Band students learn so many important life skills like commitment, dedication, pressure and team work.-Alessia Zulato

The band has been and continues to be a symbol of excellence that is identified with Marist High School.-Brother Richard Grenier

Band is such a crucial part of a high school. The students that I work with that are in band tend to be some of the highest achieving students. This is not a coincidence as it takes hard work and dedication to be a part of the Marist Band. The band also helps bring the school together at rally’s, games, and other events.-Joe Dinolfo

In my short time at Marist it seems the Band unifies the school; there is a common experience and appreciation when the Band plays at a school event. It provokes school spirit and pride. In addition, the Band’s respected reputation and success over the years enhances Marist’s reputation and marketability. It is a major component of who Marist is, especially in the eyes of alums and their parents.-Nichole Carey

The Marist Band is its brightest star 🌟 Students find a home there.-Tammy Ames

Our band is a huge source of pride for Marist. I love that the student body gets to appreciate the band when you perform at Pep rallies and cheers as loudly for the band as they do for the athletes! At halftime of football games, no other band around can compare. The level of school spirit is always elevated by the band.-Mary Barry

They provide joy and excitement to every event they attend. Anytime the band performs, my students are always excited-Dane Mayer

The band brings so much energy, light and fun to our school!-Noelle McDonnell

Best Band in the Land!! I believe that the band brings a since of Pride and Joy to the Marist community.-Curtis Jones

The Marist Band adds to our school community by participating in all sorts of events. They participate in their own concerts, athletic events, parades, school trip, pep rallies, send offs to state tournaments for athletes. Our band really makes a difference to Marist as a whole.-Marion Klatka

The Marist band creates such an energy within the school culture. It unites us. No matter what neighborhood you come from, grammar school you attended, club or sport you are involved with – when the band plays – we are ALL IN! We can’t get enough. Bring on the band!!!-Meg Dunneback

The Marist Band is a staple to the school community. It provides an opportunity for students to cultivate other individual talents outside of the academic arena.-Don Pirkle

The Marist band is one of the brightest jewels in the Marist crown and has been for a long, long time.-John Gonczy

The Marist Band is amazing! They bring so much energy and enthusiasm to the school. No matter what happens, you know that the Marist Band will be there to support the school and bring excitement and happiness.-Claire Kelly

In many ways I think the band is the image of the school people have over the years-Tim Mulcahy

The band is the heartbeat of our school!-Jan Maratea

The Marist Band ignites the spirit of the school. The way they perform with such intensity and passion really speaks to the dedication of their craft.-Renee Chimino

The Marist Band is a powerful symbol of our school’s spirit, traditions, and diversity of music and students.-Victor Trevino

They are the actual sound of the great spirit that permeates the halls of Marist.-Father Tom Hurley

The Band is the largest organization in the school. If you want to see what striving for perfection looks like, then just listen to this group play. They bring spirit and camaraderie to the various events they play at. The Ireland trip was outstanding and is a great example of the positive reputation the band has on the school.-Larry Tucker

Interview: Mr. Patrick Keelan, Class of 2004 and Assistant Band Director at Marist High School

When were you in band?

I was in band from 2000-2004

What instrument did you play?

In marching band I played snare drum, bass drum, and tenors. In concert band I played in the percussion section, all the instruments in the back.

Favorite Band Story or Memory

I have a lot of great memories from my years as a member of the Marist Band. The drumline was full of characters and we always had a good time at football games and concerts.

I always enjoyed Drumline Camp in the summer, working with Bill Winters. He taught me a lot about the world of percussion and continued to be a great help as I went through college and into a career.

Favorite Tour as a Student? Favorite Tour as an Assistant Band Director?

My favorite tour as a student was going to Pasadena for the Rose Bowl. It was a big deal for the band and Mr. Manna. It was great to see him having a great time.

Last year we took the band to Ireland. It was my first time overseas. The kids in the band were great on the trip and we had a great time. Can’t wait to go back someday.

Favorite Piece of Music that you Performed as a student and as an Assistant Band Director?

I enjoyed playing St. Thomas my freshman year in Marching Band; I still remember the snare ostinato we had to learn for that one.

Last Christmas concert I conducted a great arrangement of Greensleeves. That is a timeless tune that works in so many settings: folk, jazz band, choir, anything really; and we had a great performance of it with the Marist Concert Band. After the concert, my Dad told me it was one of my grandfather’s favorite tunes.

What was your experience like as the Assistant Band Director at Marist?

It’s been great. Working with Mr. Creagh is fantastic, he’s a lot of fun believe it or not!

I enjoy working closely with the drumline and directing the jazz band and percussion ensemble. Looking forward to our concerts this year.

What do you do now?

Well, I work at Marist and live in Evergreen Park with my lovely wife Heather and our two beautiful daughters Lorelei and Charlotte.

What is some advice that you would give to the current Marist Band members?

Pursue music outside of the school day. Start a rock band!

Upcoming Band Performances & Events

12/14/23-Marist Band Christmas Concert at 7:00 p.m. in the Main Gym.

3/17/24-South Side Irish Parade

3/21/24-3/23/24-Marist Musical, “Beauty & The Beast” *Pit Orchestra Only

4/1/24-4/6/24-New York Band Tour

4/17/23-Spring Band Concert at 7:00 p.m.

5/17/23-Graduation Performance

*Jazz Band Concert Date TBD

Marist Band Christmas Concert

What: Marist High School Band Christmas Concert

When: Thursday, December 14 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Marist Main Gym

Cost: $5 at the door. Children 10 and under are FREE. Faculty & Staff are FREE.

The Marist High School Band presents its 58th annual Christmas Concert on Thursday, December 14 at 7:00 p.m. in the school’s main gym. Tickets are $5.00 and are available at the door. Admission is free for all faculty and staff. Join the famed Marist Band as they perform an assortment of musical delights, including classical music, traditional Christmas music, and much more!

Thank You!

Mr. Larry Tucker ‘79

Mrs. Meg Dunneback

Father Tom Hurley ‘85

Mr. Frank Manna

Mr. Marion Klatka

Mr. Marty Wirtz ‘72

Mr. Pat Dunne ‘98

Mr. Patrick Keelan ‘04

Mr. Tom Inzinga ‘84

Mrs. Irene Halko

Ms. Jen Luzzo

Ms. Noelle McDonnell

Ms. Kristine Kavanaugh

Ms. Patti Derdzinski

Ms. Rita Hoffmann

Mr. Pat Dunne ‘98

Alumni Updates

Have you moved? Do you have a new job? Did you get married? Is there a new addition to your family? Let us know! https://www.marist.net/alumni/alumni-update/

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Do you know a Marist Band alum who would like to receive these seasonal Marist Band bulletins? If so, please have them e-mail Andrew Creagh at creagh.andrew@marist.net.

Band Alumni Bulletin Issue #4 – September 8, 2023

A Letter from the Director

Dear Marist Band Alumni Members,

I would like to welcome all of you to the fourth issue of the Marist Band Alumni Bulletin! This bulletin will be used to help keep alumni band members updated about what is currently happening with the band program at Marist. I apologize for not getting this bulletin out earlier, but the first few weeks of school have been extremely busy for the band.

Throughout the summer, we hosted four different band camps to help prepare for our upcoming marching season. We had our Grade School Camp, Incoming Freshmen Band Camp, Drumline Camp, and Full Band Camp. Our students worked very hard over the summer, and I am looking forward to a great marching season!

As you know, the marching band at Marist is steeped in tradition. Even though many local high school bands have adapted to corps-style bands, we are proud to be a show, Big Ten-style, high-stepping band. We try to perform music that the audience will enjoy, and we want to make everyone feel entertained at our football games. The band still performs our traditional pre-game show, which includes “NFL on Fox Theme” (used to be “Chicago” for many years), Star Spangled Banner, Script Marist, and the “Marist Fight Song.” For half-time, our students help choose our music so that we know the parents and student body will enjoy and be familiar with the music that the band performs.

Our fall season is also our busiest time of the year. We have many students who participate in fall sports and clubs. You may notice that during our field show at football games, some students may be wearing fall jerseys or sportswear, especially football, poms, dance, and cheer. We encourage our band students to be well-rounded, and to participate in other clubs and activities to enrich their high school experience.

For this fourth issue, we are highlighting our bulletin board project, recruitment, as well as interviewing band alum and Reavis Band Director, Mr. Brandon Faust. I hope you enjoy the feature!

Sincerely,

Andrew Creagh ‘04

Band Director, Marist High School

CURRENT STUDENT FEATURE – Andrew Viz

Graduation Year-2024

Grammar School? SS. Cyril and Methodius

Instrument? Alto Saxophone

What is your favorite thing about band?

Band has exposed me to a wide variety of great music and experiences that have made me more appreciative of and attentive to music in my life. Being part of band has even been part of the reason that my friends and I started our own band.

What are some other clubs, activities, and sports do you participate in?

I’ve been part of the math team and academic team since freshmen year.

What is your favorite band moment so far?

I’ve always enjoyed concerts, but homecoming games and football games in general are probably the most enjoyable experiences in band for me.

Recruitment

At Marist, we have been proud to be called the “best band in all the land.” We are one of the largest and most successful organizations at Marist High School, and we want to continue to expand our program. We have been ramping up our recruiting efforts here, and we want all of our distinguished Marist Band Alumni to help spread the word about our great program.

After the pandemic, some of our local grammar school bands have still not started their band programs back up. We also have lower band numbers in many of our local grammar schools due to the pandemic, academics, athletics, extra-curricular activities, finances, and lack of interest. The pandemic greatly impacted the fine arts in many schools, including ours. We want to encourage our grade school students to join band at their schools, even if they don’t plan on attending Marist.

As many of you know and have experienced, music can have such an impactful and profound effect on our lives. The academic, social-emotional, and even physical benefits of music are well documented. More importantly, band encourages our students to have a hard work-ethic, learn how to work as a group towards a common goal, and to strive at being the best they can possibly be. Many of our band alumni talk about the fun times, impactful moments, and the people that they met in band. The music is incredibly important, but band also encourages relationships and teaching life lessons.

The Marist Band is trying to help recruitment efforts at our local Catholic and public school band programs. Over the past few years, we have been able to bring the entire Marist Band to some schools to perform for them, and to discuss the band program at Marist. We have offered students with no music experience to join band as well, and to give them free private lessons. We also host a summer Grade School Band Camp, where we rehearse for a week and perform a concert. The band hosts our Grade School Marching Band Night, where we have local grammar school band students join the Marist Band to perform at one of our half-time shows. I have also been going to visit local bands to tell the students about the Marist Band. We have found that our best recruitment efforts come from current band students and band alumni who talk to our youth and encourage them to join. I always tell our students, “the best way to recruit is to be GREAT at what we do,” and we certainly have been doing just that!

We encourage all of our band alumni to promote our great program here at Marist. Talk with your kids, nieces/nephews, cousins, neighborhood kids, everyone! Tell them all to come to Marist and to join the Marist Band! We want to continue our traditions here, and we want ALL STUDENTS to be able to participate in our program!

Marist Band Timeline

Attention all Band Alumni!!!

The Marist Band is seeking photos from all eras of the band. We have our large bulletin board in the band room, and we would like to make a timeline using pictures from the past.

If you or someone you know has any Marist Band pictures from the 1960’s-current, we would love if you could share them with us for our display. If you would like to share pictures, please e-mail them directly to band director, Andrew Creagh, at creagh.andrew@marist.net. Please also include information about the context of the picture, and what approximate year the photo was taken.

When the project is finished, we will make sure to show it in a future Band Alumni Bulletin. Thanks so much and I look forward to seeing your pictures of the Marist Band!

Interview

Mr. Brandon Faust – Marist Class of 1998 and Band Director at Reavis High School

When were you in band?

Fall of 94 to Spring of 98

What instrument(s) did you play?

Euphonium in the concert band, and trombone in the jazz band

Favorite Band Story or Memory

My favorite memory is marching the traditional Marist Fight Song routines. The Script Marist for Pre-Game, Block Marist for Halftime, and Block M for Post Game. The way that the crowd supported us and got into our performances is something that I will never forget.

Favorite Tour as a Student?

Memphis, TN for the Liberty Bowl

Favorite Piece of Music that you Performed?

The Beatles: Echoes of an Era

You decided to pursue Music Education. What has that been like, and how did your experiences at Marist help you make that decision?

My choice to go into music education was something that I decided after my first band concert in 4^th grade. I went to St. Bede’s in Chicago, and had Mr. Frank Manna as my director. He instilled such a passion for music within me, and he is the single most important factor in me choosing Marist High School for my secondary education. Once at Marist, Mr. Manna continued to push me to be the very best I could be. He always reminded me that I always had something to improve upon, and that if I wanted to make it as a music educator, I would have to work hard, make sacrifices, and always strive to be my very best musician, and citizen. If it weren’t for Mr. Manna, and the rest of the amazing faculty and staff at Marist, I never would have made it into the Music Education program at the University of Illinois.

As a band director, what have been some of your favorite experiences that you have had?

I have had the pleasure of being the band director at Providence Catholic High School, and the current Co-Director at Reavis High School. I have so many great memories from both schools, and have learned a ton about music, teaching, and myself because of the many wonderful students, parents, and colleagues that I have interacted with through the years. I enjoy the day to day teaching, and helping students become better musicians as well as citizens. I have always loved the band trips, contests, and performances because the students always walk away with a greater appreciation for music than when they started. A recent favorite memory, is from his past Spring when my jazz band performed on the dock of the Steamboat Natchez in New Orleans.

What do you do now?
Currently I co-direct the 2^nd of 3 curricular concert bands, direct the curricular percussion ensemble, teach beginning guitar, and teach music production. I am also the director of the extra-curricular jazz band and pit orchestra.

What is some advice that you would give to the current Marist Band members?

Being a member of the Marist band is so much more than making great music. You are a part of one of the largest traditions not only at Marist, but the city of Chicago as well. The students that you are playing with right now, will be your brothers and sisters for life. You have a responsibility to all of us that have come before you, to maintain and grow the positive traditions of musical excellence that have been set forth. Practice your craft, not only for your sake, but for the sake of those around you. The band can only sound as good as the collective whole will allow. Follow the guidance of Mr. Creagh and Mr. Keelan. They know the history of this program, and are more than capable of leading it into the future. The days may seem long, but I promise you these 4 years are short. Make the most of them, and continue to make the band as great as it can be. The students you sit with each day in the band room are your brothers and sisters for life, whether you realize that now or not. It is an honor and privilege to do what we do as Marist musicians. Keep up the great work, and never forget your band program. I promise, it will never forget you. GO REDHAWKS!!!

Upcoming Band Performances & Events

9/29/23-Home Football Game vs. Joliet Catholic at 6:30 p.m. *Grade School Band Night

10/6/23-Home Football Game vs. De LaSalle at 6:30 p.m. *Homecoming

11/23/23-Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade

12/14/23-Marist Band Christmas Concert at 7:00 p.m. in the Main Gym.

*Pep Band & Grade School Performances TBD

Homecoming Band Performance

We want YOU to perform with the Marist Band at our Homecoming football game!!!

What: Marist vs. De LaSalle Homecoming Football Game

When: Friday, October 6 at 6:30 p.m. Call time for alumni band members is 5:45 p.m.

Where: Marist Football Field. Meet in Band Room.

Attire: Comfortable

Music: “Come Sail Away”-Styx. *If you would like to see the sheet music ahead of time, please e-mail Andrew Creagh and he can send it to you.

RSVP: Please RSVP to Andrew Creagh via e-mail at creagh.andrew@marist.net. Alumni band members can still perform on 10/6 if they were not able to RSVP.

Thank You!

Mr. Larry Tucker ‘79

Mrs. Meg Dunneback

Father Tom Hurley ‘85

Mr. Frank Manna

Mr. Marion Klatka

Mr. Marty Wirtz ‘72

Mr. Pat Dunne ‘98

Mr. Patrick Keelan ‘04

Mr. Tom Inzinga ‘84

Mrs. Irene Halko

Ms. Jen Luzzo

Ms. Noelle Trainor

Ms. Kristine Kavanaugh

Ms. Patti Derdzinski

Ms. Rita Hoffmann

Mr. Pat Dunne ‘98

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Marist High School Band Alumni Bulletin

Issue # 3

April 3, 2023

Marist High School Band

Band Alumni Bulletin

Issue #3

April 3, 2023

A Letter from the Director

Dear Marist Band Alumni Members,

I would like to welcome all of you to the third issue of the Marist Band Alumni Bulletin! This bulletin will be used to help keep alumni band members updated about what is currently happening with the band program at Marist.

As you probably remember, around this time of year, the band is working on preparing for our Ireland Tour and our Spring Concert. We would love for you and your families to be able to attend our concert on Wednesday, April 26 at 7:00 p.m. in the Main Gym at Marist.

The Spring Concert season is always my favorite time of year. I love our Christmas concert in December, but we are more limited with time and we also perform a number of traditional Christmas pieces. For Spring, we are able to expand our repertoire and perform music from many different genres. Since we have more rehearsal time, we are also able to push our students musically and focus on having the best possible performance that we can.

I am extremely excited to announce that Mr. Frank Manna will be guest conducting a piece at our upcoming Spring Concert in April! Mr. Manna and I have been in communication over the past few months, and it has been an absolute joy watching him work with our group. I don’t have many “deja-vu” moments while working at Marist, but I have had PLENTY while seeing Mr. Manna on the podium and conducting the band. He has done such great work with our students, and I look forward to hearing him perform with the band in April.

For this third issue, we are highlighting our upcoming Spring Concert, summarizing the Ireland 2023 Band Tour, as well as interviewing a band alum and former Assistant Band Director, Mr. Matt Jackson ‘09. Mr. Jackson was a part of the only class who had all three directors, and he also served as the Assistant Band Director at Marist for four years. I hope you enjoy the feature!

Sincerely,

Andrew Creagh ‘04

Band Director, Marist High School

CURRENT STUDENT FEATURE

Alex Klockow

Graduation Year-2025

Grammar School? Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School

Instrument? Percussion

What is your favorite thing about band?

There are so many things I could say here, but I would say my favorite thing about band is making friends. The friendships you make in band, last for life. I don’t think I can ever forget the people that I’ve met here, and being with them on tours, parades, and the football games is unbeatable.

What are some other clubs, activities, and sports do you participate in?

I am in investment club, I played in the pit orchestra for the musical, and I play in jazz band.

What is your favorite band moment so far?

I’ve made so many memories so far, but my favorite is playing quads as a freshman in the Thanksgiving Day Parade. Being told that you might have to play quads in a parade two days before, is hard to think about. I practiced so much in those two days, and the parade was well worth it.

Band Tour Recap

Ireland Band Tour from March 12, 2023-March 19, 2023

Sunday, March 12-Monday, March 13 Flight & Dublin

The band students arrived at Marist by 10:00 a.m. They brought their suitcases to the band room for inspection and marching uniform loading. We then loaded the buses and headed to O’Hare airport at 12:00 p.m. When we arrived, the students received their passports from Mr. Creagh, and everyone received their boarding passes, checked bags, went through security, and arrived at our gate. Our flight was at 5:20 p.m. The students were able to use the currency exchange in the airport to get euros. The 7.5-hour flight to Dublin went very smoothly, and the students did a great job.

When we arrived in Dublin, we met our tour director, Liam Finnegan. He led us to baggage claim and to our buses. Then, we headed directly to the Gaelic Athletic Association Grounds. We first had a traditional Irish breakfast. Then, the students watched a small presentation about hurling, Gaelic football, and handball. The students were broken into three groups and were able to try each sport for about 45-60 minutes or so. Each group had a coach teaching them how to play the game and ran some basic drills. At the end of each session, the group split and played against each other. It was a fantastic experience and the students seemed to really get into it.

After playing the games, we had a small lunch of sandwiches and soup at the GAA grounds. Then, our truck met us and unloaded our large equipment to inspect our instruments. We were scheduled to have a rehearsal, but since the students were so tired and our luggage with the smaller instruments was packed underneath the buses, I felt it was best to not rehearse that day.

We left the GAA grounds and headed to the Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge in Dublin for check-in. The students received their room keys and headed up to their rooms for a bit before dinner at the hotel. For dinner, the students had a buffet style dinner, so they were able to choose what they would like. After that, the students went up to their rooms for some brief free time before the nightly chaperone inspections.

Tuesday, March 14 Belfast

The students woke up at 6:30 a.m. For breakfast each morning, the students ate at the hotel. The food choices were eggs, rashers (bacon), sausage, black pudding, white pudding, beans, brown bread, cereal, yogurt, pastries, Irish tea, and coffee. At 8:30 a.m., the students loaded the coaches to head to Belfast.

After the 2-hour drive to Belfast, a guide came on to each bus to give a tour of the city. We explored the various areas in Belfast, and talked a lot about The Troubles (Northern Ireland Conflict). We were actually able to get off the bus and go to the Peace Wall to write messages on the wall. We weren’t able to explore the entire wall since a movie was being filmed. The movie will be called “Kneecap.”

After our bus tours finished, the students were able to explore the city in smaller groups with chaperones and eat lunch. After lunch, the students loaded the coaches and headed to the Titanic Museum. The students were able to walk through the Titanic Museum at their leisure.

Once we left the museum, we headed back to the hotel for our dinner buffet. Then, the students were in their rooms for chaperone inspections by about 9:30 p.m.

Wednesday, March 15 Galway City & Cliffs of Moher

The students woke up at 5:30 a.m. and headed down for breakfast. After breakfast, we headed to Galway City. When we first arrived, we all headed to Galway Cathedral for a quick self-guided tour. After that, the students were able to explore the area in small groups with chaperones and eat lunch. The students were also able to do some shopping while we were in Galway as well.

After Galway City, we drove to the Cliffs of Moher. It was a bit of a rough drive because the mountains and the tight roads with buses, but we made it in one piece. The weather was very rainy and foggy, so we couldn’t see too much, but we all made the best of it.

After the Cliffs, we headed to Limerick for dinner. The students were able to choose beef, chicken, or a vegetarian option. Once we finished dinner, we headed back to our hotel in Dublin for immediate chaperone inspection and lights out.

Thursday, March 16 Dublin

The students woke up at 7:00 a.m. and came down for their traditional Irish breakfast. After breakfast, we got on the buses and had a local step-on guide give us a tour of the city. Then, we headed for our tour of Christ Church Cathedral. The Church was built in 1152 and it was absolutely stunning. We explored the Church and the catacombs for about 45 minutes or so.

After Christ Church Cathedral, we headed to the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum. The students went through a self-guided tour through the museum. Then, the students went into small groups with chaperones, had lunch, explored the city, and shopped for the next few hours. Patrick Keelan (assistant director) and myself went to a band director parade meeting at The Mansion House with the Lord Mayor. Special Mention-Patrick Duffy (Dallas, Step-by-Step) was the Dublin Parade Marshall and was the guest speaker at the meeting.

After the students shopped and explored, they headed back to the hotel and ate their buffet dinner. Then, the students went to their rooms and had chaperone inspections around 9:00 p.m. Mr. Keelan and I returned back to the hotel around 11:15 or so.

Friday, March 17 Dublin (Parade)

On Friday, the students woke up around 7:15 a.m. They dressed in their full marching uniforms and came down for breakfast. The students wore berets for the parade since they are much easier to transport instead of shakos. After breakfast, we collected all of the instruments out of our storage room and loaded the buses.

We lined up for the parade and were in the holding area for a few hours. There were 14 bands in total. 13 were from the U.S. and 1 was from Canada. We were the 7^th band in the parade. We then marched through the 2-mile parade. There were tens of thousands of people lining the streets for the entire parade route! It was definitely the most people I have ever seen at a parade. It was nice to see Mr. Larry Tucker, Mr. Marion Klatka, Brother Patrick McNamara, and Brother Dan O’Riordan cheering us on the parade route as well. The parade was absolutely wonderful, and it was such an unforgettable experience.

After the parade, we headed back to the hotel for our boxed lunch (no meat due to Lent) and to change out of our uniforms. Once the students were changed, we headed to the Collins Barracks for the St. Patrick’s Day Festival. This was a family-friendly festival that featured food booths, live music, face painting, games, etc. After about an hour and a half, we headed back to the hotel for dinner. Once the students finished dinner, they headed up for chaperone inspection and lights out.

Saturday, March 18 Kilkenny

The students were up at 6:00 a.m. and dressed in their full marching uniforms again. We were very fortunate to have Mr. and Mrs. Tucker and Mr. and Mrs. Klatka with us for the day. After breakfast, we loaded the coaches for our 2-hour drive to Kilkenny. Kilkenny is a small, beautiful town. We first explored Kilkenny castle in large groups. After we toured the castle, we headed back to our buses to wait out the rain and to prepare our instruments. Then, we performed for a stand-still performance outside of Kilkenny Castle. We had a very large crowd in attendance, and the Mayor of Kilkenny even came and watched. We performed a lot of our marching music, as well as South Side Irish (we had to play that for us!) and our traditional drum circle.

After that performance, the Garda (police) escorted the band as we marched through the main street in Kilkenny. It seemed like a large part of the town followed the band through the streets as we performed. It was a GREAT experience, and it was definitely one of favorite performances ever as a band director. The kids did a masterful job. After the parade, we walked the parade route back to the buses for instrument loading. Then, the students were in groups of 4 and got lunch. After that, we loaded the coaches and went back to the hotel to freshen up for dinner.

We went to The Merry Ploughboy for dinner. The students had a variety of options to choose from to eat. During dinner, a traditional Irish band and Irish dancers performed while we sang along. Ciara Haran (freshmen band student) actually went up and performed on the fiddle as well, which was absolutely fantastic. It was a great final group meal!

After The Merry Ploughboy, we headed back to the hotel to pack. Once we had our nightly chaperone meeting, the chaperones inspected the rooms and we had lights out.

Sunday, March 19 Departure Day

The students were able to sleep in a bit. They woke up at 8:00 a.m. The chaperones did room inspections before the kids were able to come down for breakfast. After breakfast and hotel checkout, we headed to The Church of the Sacred Heart in Donnybrook. We attended Mass, and we even had some students participate as readers and helped present gifts.

After Mass, we headed to the airport. It was a bit chaotic getting the students through the airport, and it took a few hours for everyone to get to the gate. At the gate, we had some issues that had to be resolved with a student passport issue, TSA random check, and a student who fell ill due to a food allergy. Unfortunately, the student who fell ill had to stay back in Dublin for an extra day with a chaperone because the pilot determined that it was better if they did not fly. The student went to the hospital and is doing well. They are on a flight right now as I type this, and they should be arriving back in Chicago around 2:30 p.m. I really want to thank Mrs. Julie McDermott (band tour chaperone) for staying back with the student and helping with the paramedics, getting the next flight, and being there to support the student. She went above and beyond the call of duty as a band tour chaperone, and I cannot thank her enough! I also want to thank Dr. Gene Denning (band parent) and Mrs. Maria Newark (band parent) for helping with the student as well.

When we arrived back in Chicago, we waited to receive our luggage and large instruments. Then, we loaded the buses and equipment van and headed back to Marist. We arrived around 10:15 p.m. or so. We had the students drop off their uniforms, collect their passports, collect their medications, and headed home as quickly as possible.

Thank You

I would like to thank our band tour chaperones for all their efforts in making this one of the best trips! The band chaperones were:

Mr. Mark Murphy

Mr. Jaime Ortiz

Mr. Dan McDermott

Mrs. Julie McDermott

Mrs. Melissa Klockow

Ms. Erin Laskowski

Mr. Patrick Keelan (Assistant Band Director)

The chaperones did an EXCELLENT job. They spent many days with our students and their help was invaluable. I truly could not do this trip without them.

We would like to thank all of our generous donors who made this trip possible. This was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we are so fortunate and blessed to have so much amazing financial support for this trip. We were able to raise enough money for the students to pay about half of the total cost, which is UNBELIEVEABLE. Thank you all so much for making this trip possible for our students!

I would also like to thank Bob Rogers Travel for helping plan the tour. Mr. Mike Wallace and Ms. Erin Harrah did great jobs with pre-planning for our tour. Liam Finnegan (tour director) also was great on-site with assisting with the hotel, flight, truck and buses, meals, and transitions. He was by far the best tour director I have ever had! I would also like to thank our coach drivers in Dublin, Colm and Cathal Clarke.

I would like to thank Mr. Patrick Keelan for his assistance with planning, accounting, and assisting with the entire tour. This was Mr. Keelan’s second trip and he did such an excellent job with everything!

This was a GREAT trip! This was one of the most difficult trips to plan since it was our first overseas trip. The students seemed to really have a great time and I was very proud of their performances, behavior, punctuality, attitude, responsibility, and diligence throughout the entire trip. The students really stepped it up for their events and I could not be happier with how the tour went. I received many comments from people in Ireland about how well-mannered and well-behaved the students were.

We are one of the only high school bands who are fortunate enough to attend a band tour every year. We can only do this from our support from our students, parents, donors, and the Marist community. I am so happy with the students and I am looking forward to New York next year!

Thank you all so much!!!

Interview

Mr. Matt Jackson

Class of 2009 and Former Assistant Band Director

When were you in band?

I was in band as a student from 2005 to 2009 and then I was the Assistant Director from 2014 to 2018.

What instrument did you play?

My primary instrument is trumpet but I was also a drum major my junior and senior years.

Favorite Band Story or Memory

I have enough Marist Band stories to fill a book, but my favorite memory has to be driving my car in the rain on Cicero Avenue and getting the phone call from Larry Tucker officially offering me Assistant Director job.

Favorite Tour as a Student? Favorite Tour as an Assistant Band Director?

Disney was probably my favorite overall tour as a student because we had great performance opportunities and a lot of free time in the parks.

As Assistant Director, it is hard to choose between New York and New Orleans. New York was great because the band did a concert on an aircraft carrier, toured Carnegie Hall, and ate some amazing noodles in China Town. During free time in Times Square, I took a group of students for pizza at John’s. The pizza was awesome, but the meal was extra special because this was the restaurant we had our final dinner at when I went as a student.

New Orleans is one of my favorite tours because the food was amazing. Since this was the year after New York, the same student in my pizza group made it a point to go with me to as many restaurants as we could.

Favorite Piece of Music that you Performed as a student and as an Assistant Band Director?

To be honest, I don’t remember a lot of the pieces we played. The most memorable piece though has to be “Pilatus: Mountain of Dragons” by Steven Reineke.

Is it the greatest piece of music? No, but here is why it’s so memorable for me… I started attending Marist Band concerts when I was in 5th grade because Frank Manna was my elementary school band director. When I was in 5th or 6th grade, the band played this piece and as a 12 or 13 year old, I thought it was a cool piece. Fast forward to my freshman year, we performed it at Frank’s last concert. Fast forward again to my senior year, Frank was asked to guest conduct at our spring concert. The seniors all wanted him to conduct Pilatus, but the music had disappeared from the library and Mr. Creagh wasn’t going to buy a new copy. Once I heard this, I took matters into my own hands and ordered a copy of the music. The next week, I brought it in, and Pilatus was back on the program.

Pilatus is also memorable for me because during rehearsals for that concert, Mr. Creagh got a flat tire one day on the way to school and Mr. Coe told me that I had to run rehearsal (the assistant director wasn’t a full-time position at that point and he wasn’t there that day). I grabbed my baton out of my locker (yes, I was that kid) and got to rehearse Pilatus. It was my first time rehearsing a concert band on my own.

As Assistant Director, my favorite piece was “Danse Bohemian” by Randall Standridge. The piece is really fast and features solo xylophone. The students loved the piece and Liz Hermann hit the solo out of the park. During one rehearsal, I had a metronome going and we were just trying to get faster. I was happy when we hit 165bpm, but Mr. Creagh came in and took control of the metronome. By the end of rehearsal, we were playing at 195bpm. My arm was ready to fall off, and Liz came to school the next day wearing wrist braces. We played it on our Disney tour and at the spring concert, and then Liz performed it the following fall with my community band.

What was your experience like as the Assistant Band Director at Marist?

It was the best job I’ve ever had. At the beginning, it was so strange seeing your former teachers as colleagues. Even though they all told me to call them by their first names there were a few teachers that I couldn’t break the habit with. Mr. Coe was still Mr. Coe, Dr. Bello was still Dr. Bello, and Coach Gervais was still Coach.

It was also strange working with Mr. Creagh at first. It probably took a year or so until it didn’t feel like he was my former teacher and I was his former student, and we were just co-workers and friends. Two years into teaching at Marist, Mr. Creagh got married and I even pinned on his boutonnière at the wedding. I don’t think many Assistant Directors get to do that.

One of the things that was fun about being the Assistant Director was taking on projects that I knew the band would be using for years after I was gone. My uncle and I built the tour crates that are still being used. I spent my entire Christmas break one year putting the Deegan vibraphone back together piece by piece after it was dropped off the stage at a Christmas concert and broke into several hundred pieces. Mr. Creagh and I even took a road trip to Goshen, IN to pick up the marimba for the band.

You were a part of the only class who had all three directors (Mr. Manna, Mr. Carioto, & Mr. Creagh). What was that like for your class?

I loved my Marist Band experience, but my class was the only class to go through the only two director changes in the band’s history and there was some navigating through the changes. In some ways, it was our class that held the band together. The older classes were on one side of the aisle and the younger classes were on the other side. Change is difficult for everyone, but it is especially difficult for high school students and a band program that had over 40 years with one director.

The one thing all three directors had in common was their love for the band. Mr. Carioto and Mr. Creagh are both band alumni and I think that is a very important quality for the Director of the Marist Band. Something we don’t realize as students, is just how different the Marist Band is than bands at other high schools. This is neither good nor bad, but it would make the job very difficult for someone that didn’t go to Marist.

All three directors are drastically different in their teaching style, conducting style, and personality. Mr. Manna has a huge personality and loved to program “big” pieces of music. Even though his primary instrument is clarinet, in many ways Mr. Manna is more like a lead trumpet player…. Louder, faster, higher.

When Mr. Creagh took over, he was fresh out of college. He was 22 and was taking over a band that was transitioning from one director to the next. We started to get our act together, and by the time I started as Assistant Director, the band was playing as well as it ever did. In many ways, I think the band played even better.

What do you do now?

During the day, I am a school sales rep at Quinlan and Fabish Music Company. I work with about 60 Chicago area band and orchestra directors and help them with everything from recruiting future students, ordering music and other supplies, and repairing and maintaining instruments. There are a lot of things I miss about teaching, but when life gives you a great opportunity, you need to take advantage of it.

I am also the Music Director of the Encore Concert Band. Encore is a community band that was founded in 1999 by former Marist Band parent, Bill Schuetter. We rehearse on Thursday nights at Mokena Junior High and are always looking for new members. There are currently several former Marist Band members that play with band, and we also have several members that went years without playing since high school and have joined us. If you are interested in playing with us, you can find more information at www.encoreband.org.

Even though I mostly conduct these days, I still play trumpet as a freelance musician and I am a member of the Southwest Symphony Orchestra.

What is some advice that you would give to the current Marist Band members?

As an alumnus… Enjoy every minute you have with the band and don’t take anything for granted. When you are in high school, four years seems like forever, but those years are going to fly by.

As a teacher… Practice, Practice, Practice. No one has ever regretted being too prepared for a performance. Practicing fundamentals (scales, long tones, rudiments, flexibility exercises, multiple tonguing, etc…) does more to improve your playing than just practicing songs.

Use a tuner when you practice. If you don’t play in tune, it doesn’t matter if you play every rhythm and fingering correctly, because you are still going to sound wrong. If you play in tune with a good tone and miss a note or two, you are still going to sound better than if you play out of tune and nail everything else.

Finally, listen to professionals that play your instrument. Listening to good players is almost as important as practicing because that is how you develop your concept of what you want to sound like. If you play the trumpet, but don’t listen to really good trumpet players, how are you supposed to know what a trumpet should really sound like? The same goes for all instruments and all styles of music.

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Upcoming Band Performances & Events

3/27/23-4/1/23-Pit Orchestra Performance for Spring Music (pit orchestra students only)

4/26/23-Spring Band Concert at 7:00 p.m. in the Main Gym, featuring Mr. Frank Manna (former Marist Band Director) as a guest conductor.

4/27/23-Jazz Band & Percussion Ensemble Concert at 6:00 p.m. in the Marist Theater

5/3/23-Chop Session for all Incoming and Current Percussionists from 4:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m.

5/9/23-Skill Assessment Day for Incoming Freshmen Band Students from 3:00 p.m.-4:45 p.m. in the Band Room

5/18/23-Graduation Performance at 7:00 p.m. at Marist High School

*Summer Band Camp dates TBD

Spring Concert 2023

Featuring Mr. Frank Manna, Guest Conductor

What: Marist High School Band Christmas Concert

When: Wednesday, April 26 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Marist Main Gym

Cost: $5 at the door. Children 10 and under are FREE. Faculty & Staff are FREE.

The Marist High School Band presents its 58th annual Spring Concert on Wednesday, April 26 at 7:00 p.m. in the school’s main gym. Tickets are $5.00 and are available at the door. Admission is free for all faculty and staff. Join the famed Marist Band as they perform an assortment of musical delights, including classical music, traditional band literature, and much more!

Ways to Give to the Marist Band

Support on Champagnat Day – April 20^th and be part of our Frank Manna Band Challenge. Bob Klinger ’80 generously donated $2,500 dollars and is asking for 100 alumni band members to donate in any amount.
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Marist-High-School-Frank-Manna-Band?utm_source=copyLink&utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=Marist-High-School-Frank-Manna-Band&utm_campaign=pfp-share&utm_term=e8743547d98e40198cb4931e411f3fc2

Thank You!

Mr. Larry Tucker ‘79

Mrs. Meg Dunneback

Father Tom Hurley ‘85

Mr. Frank Manna

Mr. Marion Klatka

Mr. Marty Wirtz ‘72

Mr. Pat Dunne ‘98

Mr. Patrick Keelan ‘04

Mr. Tom Inzinga ‘84

Mrs. Irene Halko

Ms. Jen Luzzo

Ms. Noelle Trainor

Ms. Kristine Kavanaugh

Ms. Patti Derdzinski

Ms. Rita Hoffmann

Mr. Pat Dunne ‘98