NEWPORT, R.I. – Getting out into the community is job one for Navy Band Northeast, and last month, three ensembles took the opportunity to visit Rhode Island schools.
The brass and woodwind quintets performed a joint concert in Newport at Thompson Middle School, and the popular music group, Rhode Island Sound, performed at Winman Junior High in Warwick. These visits were intended to not only entertain and educate students, but to expose them to the Navy and Navy professionalism.
After each performance, the musicians held clinics for the students and answered questions about life as a sailor and professional musician.
Students had questions about playing music in the military, going to war, and many other topics, but one question in particular stood out – What is your favorite part of working with middle school students?
“Seeing how far the young musicians come in just a couple of years,” replied Musician 2nd Class Amber Hosmer.
“There were new students just starting to play clarinet who were still learning their fingerings and older students who were much more advanced,” said Hosmer of the experience. “It’s so neat to see how much they learn in such a short time.”
According to Peter Kiley, music director at Winman Junior High, the group’s performances and instruction were well received.
“The Navy musicians are first-rate performers and professionals,” said Kiley. “Students and faculty were raving about the performance for days.
“In this modern age with so many distractions, both positive and negative, it is difficult to maintain the focus and motivation. The students referred to the Navy musicians as excellent role models, inspiring them to work hard and stay committed to performing great music.”
Musician 2nd Class Trevor Shifflett, unit leader of Rhode Island Sound, was glad to hear that their performance left students inspired.
“The excitement in the room when the show started with a drum solo was a palpable thing, and it seemed to grow with every song we played,” said Shifflett. “Whether it was Michael Jackson, Chuck Berry or Taylor Swift, they didn’t care. They just loved the fact that we were there playing great music.”
Don Chilton, band director at Thompson Middle School, immediately noticed the difference the visit made in his students.
“The students were motivated and inspired,” Chilton said of the experience. “There was an energy that hadn’t been there before.”
Chilton’s perspective is unique, being a retired senior chief musician who once served as a member of Navy Band Northeast. He recalls performing at schools during his time in the Navy, and that it used to be just an “in and out” visit.
“I enjoyed it, but now I can see the difference in the kids,” said Chilton. “It’s amazing.”
Schools interested in having Navy Band Northeast visit and perform are encouraged to submit a request to
nbne.ops@navy.milor 401-841-2479.