(above) The RHS Marching Band was celebrated for their multiple wins this year.
Rahway High School Marching Band 2019
Submitted by Rob Kinch
A litany of awards and special recognition attest to the Rahway High School (RHS) Marching Band’s success in composing a winning musical score under the directorship of high school teacher Mr. Miguel Bolivar. Being part of a school district and a town which “prides itself on the arts,” notes the students’ beloved ‘Mr. B.’, “It is only fitting that the school system become a beacon of the performing arts for the entire community.”
“An education in the fine and performing arts is critical to all of our children,” affirms Superintendent of Schools Dr. Patricia Camp. “It speaks to helping students develop a different way of thinking.” Mr. Bolivar offers, “Our Superintendent acknowledges the hard work of the teachers and students in not only the marching band but in all the arts. She has been instrumental in allowing and endorsing not only the marching band but other ensembles comprised of Rahway Band students to perform in different competitions and events at prestigious venues such as The Cell in NYC, Carnegie Hall, The Make Music Festival, TIA Indoor Guard Competitions and Championships, along with the WGI World Championships in Dayton, Ohio. She helps to hold up the banner of the arts and preserve its status as the crown jewel of the district.”
In synchrony with the spirit of Dr. Camp’s beliefs, the Rahway Board of Education has also been instrumental in seeing to it that the arts are provided with what they need to flourish. In particular, the marching band was able to receive a trailer that was budgeted and Board approved in order to make the ease of equipment transfer and rehearsals in the county park a less arduous endeavor. “It is this community’s commitment to the arts which drew me to Rahway initially,” explains ‘Mr. B.’.
Thanks to the dedication, spirit, and talent of its music-making members, the RHS Marching Band has won 2nd place honors out of 6 bands at Ramsey HS’s Tournament of Bands Competition, 2nd place out of 8 bands at the Rutherford HS’s TOB competition (also garnering awards for best Color Guard and best Visual), 3rd place out of 9 bands at the Woodbridge HS’s TOB competition (along with best Color Guard), as well as placing 6th out of 14 bands in the NJ States competition and 8th out of 14 bands in the Regional competition, where it also came in 3rd for Percussion and Color Guard. “This multitude of awards,” comments Superintendent Camp, “is proof positive of our students’ outstanding performance and of the support coming from every part of our community.”
Now, crowning a season of competitive wins, the RHS Marching Band has proudly garnered First Place Group A Honors at the recent CJMEA, East Brunswick HS Competition, while also winning Best Overall Effect, Best Visual, and Best Music! “After so many hours of practice, sleepless nights, and uncountable tears,” offers Drum Major Jamarlia Fuller, “placing First was just overwhelming for us all…we couldn’t have done it without ‘Mr. B.’!” Rahway HS Principal Mr. John Farinella is quick to offer his praise and respect for his dedicated musicians. “The outstanding achievements of our students on the competitive marching band scene are a reflection of their strong talent, hard work, and dauntless commitment to excellence.”
Speaking for both herself and for her fellow band members, Ms. Fuller also gives credit for the band’s success to respected teacher Mr. Bolivar for “his support both emotionally and motivationally” as well as to “our school for providing the resources and accommodations which allow us to develop our love for music.” Principal Farinella also extends his sincere thanks “to all the members of our school community for supporting the needs of our program.” “Our band would not realize the outstanding success that we celebrate in the absence of the caring support of the school community at large.” For 12th grade percussionist Fernando Guzman, the season’s performances held a very personal significance. “I love the competition. It makes me smile and it makes me want to continue doing music.” No doubt…to the tune of a very proud community.
Photos by Joseph Mudrak
