By:Eugene Gilligan
Band director Michael Messina was hoping for a top five finish in the competition, so its second place finish to LeRoy Junior/Senior High School of LeRoy, N.Y. was a pleasant surprise, he said. Band members also were able to keep things in perspective.
"At first, there was some disappointment that we didn't win," Messina said. "But then we realized what a monumental achievement it was just to be there."
Messina emphasized that the band's success is the result of a team effort, but did single out for praise: Phil Coonan, trumpet; Matt Falconer, baritone horn; Steven Zimmerman, trombone; Henry Lopez, tenor sax; Mike Maraia and Samantha Eversley, dance duet; Catherine Tosiello, flag solo; Briana Johnson, flag solo; and Mike Maraia, rifle and flag solos. "We have received an overwhelming amount of help from our parents, who sewed flags; moved equipment; and provided overnight chaperone duty."
He also cited his assistant direct, Rachel Jessup; color guard director, Amy Herman; and his chairperson, Philip Campanella.
The band's competitive experience gave them a big edge in this year's contest, Messina said.
"Last year, they were somewhat distracted by the size of the Carrier Dome, and the crowd," Messina said. "This year, they focused more on playing well."
The band also won a preliminary competition in Phoenix, N.Y. the day before the championships. While winning is great, Messina said, the band's focus is on education.
"It's great to be in this position," he said. "Winning is not our main concern. We want to make it educational, to make it fun."
The band's success, though, is contagious, he said."This is my ninth year as director," Messina said. "When I arrived, there wasn't a competitive marching band. In fact, the students in the group refused to practice outside. Now, they are practically begging me to have extra rehearsals because they enjoy the activity so much. It took many years of hard work to build the program we have today, but it was very much worth it."
