Lyndonville sees resurgence in school marching band

Photos by Tom Rivers

LYNDONVILLE – The Lyndonville marching band was out practicing on Friday for Monday’s July 4 parade that starts at noon. This photo shows Aaron Despard, left, and Justin Higgins carrying the banner for the band.

Last year there were 40 kids in the band for the Independance Day Parade. This year there will be 85. The program has grown with the inclusion of fifth- and sixth-graders as well as more participation from upperclassmen.

Natalie Allen, front right, plays the piccolo in the band, which was rehearsing on Housel Avenue on Friday.

Kristina Best, the middle and high school band director for Lyndonville, keeps an eye on the band during rehearsal on Friday. She said she is impressed by the big turnout from the students, especially at the beginning of summer vacation.

“We’re really proud of these kids because it is optional,” she said. “They’re out here for the community.”

Anna Lewis, left, and her sister Aubrey, right, play the saxophone in the band.

John Bailey, the elementary school music teacher, is happy watching the students practice on Friday. He has several elementary school students in the band.

Tamara Huzair is among the band members for Lyndonville.

The band stopped by a teacher’s house on Garland Street and played “Happy Birthday” for the teacher.

The parade on Monday is a big part of Lyndonville’s Fourth of July celebration. (Click here to see the schedule.) The Lyndonville Lions Cub organizes the popular community celebration.