Return of the Cheney High School band energizes school

By JOSEPH YOUMANS

Correspondent

Editors note: The following was submitted as part of language arts teacher Darrelyn McDermott's class project.

Fall brings change to high schools everywhere. Teachers, classes, traditions, and scenery are all a bit different every year. At Cheney High School, everyone's talking about the biggest change of all – the band program.

For a long time the school has needed a little “oomph” to bring spirit to its halls and sporting events. This problem is no more, as over one ninth of the school population is a part of the band program; a staggering 119 students participate in the various groups, with numbers expected to increase every year.

In 2006 the marching band had 22 members. Now in 2008 that number is more than tripled. There is new equipment to be seen, great music to be heard, more spirit to be had, and more traffic in and out of the band room than ever before.

“The amount of progress we've made is incredible. I've never had a band that works this hard and has this much fun together,” CHS band director Mike Suhling said. “I'm proud to be at Cheney High.”

Evidence of the program's return from a long sabbatical, which teachers, administration, and students alike are still getting used to, was obvious last year as the different groups consistently placed high at many competitions. The band further proved its return by kicking off the season with a huge presence at the opening football game against Lakeland.

There is no question the spirit and support from the pep band helped the football team to put away the bigger Lakeland Greenhawks at 30-10. They had all the more to give at the homecoming game against Medical Lake, which was even more drastic and upbeat as Cheney defeated their opponents with a final score of 56-7. It is becoming quite clear that these musicians have much to give to their school and community.

Just who are these students who create such an impressive band with an even more impressive track record? Some would be surprised to know there are varsity football, soccer, tennis, and cross country players within the band.

Aside from their obligations to academics and other activities, these kids stay after school for two hours on Mondays and Thursdays (sometimes longer) to rehearse, endure two tough hot weeks of marching camp in the summer, and show up to every home football and basketball game to support their team.

The band is a family, and a tight one at that. Both students and director enjoy being together and putting hard-core dedication into making music in a positive, fun atmosphere.

As more and more heads turn in amazement, the rivalry between athlete and musician has finally started to decrease. Teachers, administrators, and other students are developing respect as they realize how talented these kids are, how hard they work, and how much they love doing it.

Joseph Youmans is a Cheney High School senior and member of the Blackhawks' band.