RallyNorth.net

Beverly band has relaxed season

Tuesday, October, 09 By Cate Lecuyer
Staff writer

For the second time in its 29-year-history, the Beverly band is not competing this fall. Band Director Ray Novack made the decision last year, saying the students were being pushed too hard and needed a break. Eliminating competitions meant fewer rehearsals over the summer, and a more relaxed season with less pressure.

"I think the kids are enjoying the freedom," he said. "Just because we're not competing doesn't mean we're not good." Band members are still taking their football half-time show very seriously. This year the band is working on an around-the-world performance that features music from Ireland, Russia, Spain and the United States. The band has played one of the songs at each home game, and by Oct. 20 they plan to put it all together, Novack said.

The fact that students won't be performing the show in a competition has done nothing to deter their determination and professionalism.

"They're here to play music, and that's the driving force," he said.