Writer  /  Kara Reibel
Photos Provided

The inspiration for the marching band show “Growing Crazy” for the Noblesville HS Marching Millers was based on their actual growth over the last few years. They have gone from two concert bands, one percussion class and one jazz band to three concert bands, two percussion classes and four jazz bands.

Eric Thornbury, Director of Bands and Music Department Chair, says, “The expansion of our music programming has been tremendous.” The state is taking notice too, awarding the highest rating to all three concert bands by the Indiana State Music Association.

“Our marching band placed the highest they have placed [4th] since 1987,” shares Thornbury. “And our jazz program has flourished, finishing second at the Ball State Jazz Festival under the direction of Bethany Robinson.”

It’s worth noting that Robinson was named Indiana Jazz Educator of the year for 2014-2015 and earned Noblesville’s District Teacher of the Year. Thornbury adds, “We have more students qualify for State Solo and Ensemble, representing Noblesville in Honor Bands and participating in our pep band and chamber music programs than ever before.”

Hosting special events is one of the ways the Noblesville Band Department is a leader in music at the statewide level. Annually in July, Noblesville hosts the annual “Black and Gold Marching Invitational” which is the second largest track show competition in the state, second only to Band Day at the Indiana State Fair.

Last fall, Noblesville was home to one of the Indy Jazz Fest Concerts, featuring Josh Kaufman, winner of NBC’s “The Voice.” Noblesville was also one of two host sites for the first annual All-District Jazz Band in November.

Robinson and Thornbury are both grateful to the entire Noblesville community for their outstanding support for the music program. Robinson offered, “Our school, administration and community support enable us to experience this kind of growth and make a positive impact in the lives of these young musicians.”

In October, the marching band made a trip to Disney World to showcase their talent at the Magic Kingdom. This experience was made possible with broad community support.

“Noblesville is an incredible place for our students to learn 21st century skills, receive world-class instruction and experiences and to be a part of a family during their time in high school,” shares Robinson.

Noblesville has been named a “Best Community for Music Education” by the National Association of Music and Merchants (the NAMM is behind the Grammy Awards). “This is a huge ‘feather in our cap’ for our community,” shares Thornbury. “This speaks to the success we are gaining because of the support of our community.”

Now that’s something to toot their horns about!

For more information, please visit noblesvillemusic.org.

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