Malverne marches into first place

Malverne High School’s marching band, the Pride of Malverne, certainly made Malverne proud last weekend, placing first in the New York State Field Band Championships.

The victory at the Syracuse Carrier Dome on Oct. 31 topped off an undefeated 2010 season, which included first place at Brentwood, Copiague, Walt Whitman, Arlington, Mineola and Phoenix. Malverne’s Pride defeated 12 other bands in Small School III Conference this year, earning its second state title: it earned its first in 2006, placing fourth in 2007 and 2008, and second in 2009.

For its field show during this year’s championship — in which 110 students participated — the Pride performed “The Planets,” a classical work by Gustav Holst. The band engaged in rigorous practice and rehearsals led by Band Director Erin Lynch, Assistant Band Director Glen Johnson, Color Guard Director Mike Maraia and the district Chairman of Music and Fine Arts Michael Messina.

“Winning the State Championship is truly a remarkable achievement. Our students represent the best of today’s youth — a true melting pot in which everyone became unified towards one goal,” Messina said. “They represented themselves, their families, Malverne High School and the entire community in their successful season-long journey to the title. In a time when the teaching profession is coming under fire, Ms. Lynch and her staff are to be commended for working so hard and being completely dedicated to their students.”

The Herald will profile Malverne High School’s marching band, the Pride of Malverne, in next week’s issue.

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