Dr. Matt Haley, Assistant Professor of Music at Brewton-Parker College, started a band for homeschool students earlier this Fall semester.
Homeschoolers interested in this opportunity were initially invited to a “musical instrument petting zoo” held on August 23. About thirty students had the opportunity to hear demonstrations of and to play instruments like the: clarinet, flute, saxophone, trumpet, and trombone. After working with each instrument, the students’ parents talked to a representative from a local music rental company about the cost of participating.
The professor commented, “I’m really excited about starting the band. I think it will be a fun way for homeschool students to have the school band experience. Band is a great family activity that you can take part in the rest of your life.”
He went on to add, “Some of the best things in my life come directly from a band director teaching me the trumpet when I was a kid. I hope we can give the same experience to homeschoolers in the community.”
The homeschool band currently meets on campus every Wednesday from 2pm to 3pm. They plan to perform for the first time at Brewton-Parker’s Winter Recital.
Homeschoolers who missed the petting zoo event but want to join the band can email Haley at mhaley@bpc.edu.
Adults who are looking for a community band can join the Brewton-Parker College Community Wind Ensemble, which meets on Monday nights. Interested musicians can also contact Dr. Haley.