last band camp

Ryan's senior year is officially underway, with the completion of Band Camp...his last as a Kamehameha student.  Now that he is a co-section leader (with Shane), he is really stepping up and leading the tuba section.  He took the initiative to get the tuba section (including two freshmen) to stand with their instruments during sitdown music practices in the bandroom so that they would be ready for the strenuousness of Band Camp.  He and Shane called sectionals before camp and taught the newbies marching basics as well.  He really seems to enjoy being part of Kalalea too (the band student leadership group).

Because Kamehameha Schools started a a major construction project after school ended, the band is unable to practice on campus at night since there is no lighted field available.  So they practiced at the the University of Hawaii, Manoa Campus, T.C. Ching Field in the evenings, at the school's Intermediate Field during the day (instead of at Kunuikea Stadium).  It was a little humbug and a little expensive for those of us parents who like to go watch practice ($5 parking x 2 cars since Darrell and I went separately), but the weather was pretty cool and breezy.

It was a nice surprise to find out Ryan was chosen to conduct the first part of the field show ("When I Fall In Love") when the band is facing the back of the field.  When they turn around, the drum major Keola takes over and Ryan goes back to his place on the field.  The theme is "Seasons of Love," with many love songs worked together, including "El Tango De Roxanne," "Come What May," and "Elephant Love Medley," from "Moulin Rouge," which is made up of several different songs.

Because they've had several practices before Band Camp to learn the music, the kids made a lot of progress during Band Camp, learning most of the marching for the field show and all of the music.

Here are the seniors with their banner, designed by Deby Chock of Design Logix, a former band parent.  All of the seniors' names are on the banner.

Here's the 2010-2011 tuba line, L-R standing, Ryan, Shane, Ioane, Kenika, Michael.  Kneeling, Christian and Ridge.

And at the end of Band Camp, the students and staff gathered on the field to sing the alma mater and perform their chant.