Greenwave Band Takes Boosters’ Support to the Field

New percussion harnesses are in use, the color guard has grown, and the Greenwave marching band is putting its “Pirates of the Caribbean” field show together as a revived parent booster organization begins to see its summer efforts reach the field.

The Greenwave Music Boosters formed this spring to provide financial and volunteer support for Churchill County High School’s marching band, concert band, choir, and color guard. One of the organization’s first projects was helping replace worn percussion harnesses, with anonymous donors funding 10 new harnesses valued at about $4,000.

For music teacher Melissa Weick-Juceam, having the Boosters behind the program has made a difference.

“They’re awesome,” Weick-Juceam said. “They’re able to make my job a little easier with some of the things that they do.”

The Boosters help provide lunches for students at competitions and band camp, shade during practices, and other support while continuing to raise money for the program.

“Money is always an issue for a band program, or any music program,” Weick-Juceam said.

Replacing the marching band’s aging uniforms remains one of the organization’s largest goals. Weick-Juceam said the uniforms are about 30 years old and estimated replacing them could cost between $70,000 and $80,000.

The color guard is another visible change this season. After former coach Ashlee Rhodes left the program, Kellie Pierce stepped in to lead the group. Weick-Juceam said the program had one color guard member last year and none the year before. This season, a full group is practicing alongside the band.

Students are working under drum major Aden David and assistant drum major Kaya Thompson as they learn the “Pirates of the Caribbean” field show. David, who is also a drummer, said the band is working on the opening portion of the show.

The section-colored tie-dye shirts seen across the field are another product of the Boosters’ summer work. During band camp, volunteers organized the shirts to help students build friendships before marching season began.

The band’s first competition is scheduled for Oct. 3.

Meanwhile, the Boosters continue working toward the program’s larger needs. Donations are being accepted at any WaFd Bank branch throughout August, and Greenwave-themed blankets remain available for purchase. Proceeds from the blankets support the Greenwave Music Boosters and Churchill County High School student musicians. The organization has also launched a Greenwave Music Boosters Facebook page to share information and updates.

For Weick-Juceam, the value of the revived organization extends beyond fundraising.

“They’re just so helpful,” she said.

Photo below:  DRUM MAJOR — Greenwave drum major Aden David leads the marching band through practice as students work on their “Pirates of the Caribbean” field show.