The future of the Norris Band program might just have gotten a little louder! 

Norris Intermediate School fifth grade students recently traded their music classroom for the football field, where they had the opportunity to watch the Norris High School Marching Band perform, learn about color guard, and even try their hands at playing the drums. 

For fifth grader, Gavin Lottman, getting up close to the action was a highlight. “It was cool that we got to go on the field with the band. We played the drums and started playing random rhythms.” Classmate Brooks Thornton was equally enthusiastic. “It was really fun to see! The band did really good. If I do band, I would play the trumpet!”

The experience was more than just a fun field trip. It was an opportunity for students to see where their own musical journeys might take them. Under the direction of intermediate music teacher, Mrs. Anna Erikson, students in grades 3-5 build on the musical foundations established in elementary school. Through singing, playing instruments, and performing, students develop their musical skills, confidence, and independence as they prepare for opportunities in middle school.

“Intermediate students are physically able to handle more complex music production and are preparing to be a part of band and choir in 6th grade and beyond,” Erikson explained. Fifth graders in her class are introduced to instruments such as the recorder and participate in a fall vocal music program, helping them discover their interests before deciding whether to join band as they enter sixth grade.

That progression is supported by a dedicated team of Norris music educators. Middle school band director, Mr. Jamie Smith, and high school band director, Mr. Matt Jackson, have worked to strengthen the district’s instrumental music program, developing students’ musical abilities while building an increasingly competitive marching band. All of which builds upon the foundation laid by Erikson and elementary counterpart, Sabrina Kirkwood.

The results of all of our music faculty’s efforts, and our students’ hard work, are certainly something to be proud of! The Norris Marching band has made tremendous strides in its musicality and performances, giving younger Titans plenty to look forward to.

The high school marching band will conclude its competitive field performance season at 4:15pm on Saturday, October 24th, at the Nebraska State Bandmasters Association State Marching Competition at Buell Stadium (Millard South) in Omaha.

For Erikson, watching students grow from beginning musicians into accomplished performers is one of the most rewarding parts of teaching. “It’s also fun for me to get to see former students rocking it out in marching band and choir!” she shared.

Whether this year’s fifth graders eventually pick up a trumpet, grab a pair of drumsticks, join the color guard, or find their voice in choir, the opportunities ahead are exciting. And who knows? A few years from now, some of those same students might be the ones inspiring the next generation of Norris musicians!