The Band Showcase: Celebrating Talent and Revealing Disparities 

Howard County High Schools Music Programs

Reservoir High’s marching band performed at the Howard County Showcase held at Hammond High on Wednesday, October 19th. Marching bands from Hammond, Long Reach, River Hill, Marriotts Ridge, Wilde Lake, Howard, Mount Hebron, and Centennial high schools also performed. As Reservoir members passed by fellow county band members, comments and comparisons began. These included statements about who had the most excellent uniforms, the highest number of players, and the most expensive equipment. 

While the showcase highlighted the talent and dedication of all the bands, the disparities in the county’s music program were noticeable. Hammond’s band members filled the field and performed first as the event hosts to welcome their fellow musicians. Howard followed with a larger band featuring a complete pit of xylophones, electric piano, drums, and a guitar player. A highlight of their performance was Howard’s recognition of its band boosters and local sponsors, including Red Robin restaurants. 

The RHS marching band performed “Back in Sync,” their rendition of popular ’90s boy band songs. While the performance excited the audience and had everyone singing and jamming along, the smaller size of Reservoir’s band became apparent after seeing the other schools on the field. “Membership is down from my freshman year,” said Senior Marching Band Conductor John Fonmboh. 

The smaller size did not hinder the band’s ability to connect with the audience and perform exceptionally. “Back in Sync” was a testament to the band member’s relationship with each other culminating their season of hard work with three performances featuring a final medley of their previous songs “Bye Bye Bye” and “I Want it That Way.” 

However, the music budget decreased sharply between 2019 and 2020, going from $416k to $297k. The budget has surpassed Pre-COVID numbers three years later, with $437k dedicated to material and supplies. Lack of funding at the county level has left many schools to raise the necessary money themselves.

The Reservoir Music Foundation has been working diligently to support the music program. Band Director Mr. David Bacon said, “Without them, we couldn’t do what we do. Without their financial and volunteer support, the music program would be a quarter of what it is. They make the difference.” The Music Foundation’s support was significant; however, for the 2022 to 2023 school year, they projected a $2k deficit. Senior Junior Marching band conductor Jack Higginbotham shared, “I have read through the budget and seen the cuts. There needs to be more done at the county level regarding funding. There have been times this year when we have come short on funds.” More than ever, the Reservoir music program needs financial help from the County level. 

Chart from the Reservoir High School Music Foundation 2022-2023 Budget report

Despite the funding challenges, the Reservoir Marching band is dynamic and inclusive, with all members finding a place within the group. Freshman Trombone Player Jaimie Yi attributes successful high school transition to marching band. Yi said, “being in the marching band, I was able to know more people starting school. We are friends and help each other out.” Senior Baritone Saxophone player Andrew Lawson said, “It is a great experience. Typically, I am shy, but being in the marching band helped me make friends. I think it can help people with social issues like me.”

All students in the music program deserve adequate financial support. Increased support at the county level is needed to help decrease the divide between Howard County High School’s bands and alleviate the burden on directors and parent volunteers. Mr. Bacon said, “I have already spent the money the county has given us on music, so we will have to rely on the Music Foundation to buy music for the Spring. In the past, they have paid to purchase instruments, repair instruments, bought buses for the Howard County Showcase, and bought transportation for other performances.”