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Saturday's Internet Edition, 1:15 PM, July 19, 2008.
Letters to the Editor for June 25, 2008
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Hats off to GHS music program and talented students
Editor:
The week of May 19, I was informed that, after three years as the music teacher for Galt School’s choral and instrumental music program, Paul Everts had suddenly resigned. With just days before graduation, there was an urgent need for someone to step in. I was asked to fill this need to ensure the choirs and the concert band performed as scheduled for graduation.
I accepted, but with great trepidation; after all, Mr. Everts was building quite a reputation by energizing his students and the musical community with a new level of performance. Consequently I wasn’t sure how I could help. Mr. Everts reassured me that the students had prepared their music well, and I should have no problems. My presence was to help keep students focused in a positive direction toward graduation.
On Thursday of this same week, I reported to the Galt High band room and for the next five days I had one of the most incredible experiences of my teaching career.
Upon my arrival, I gave my usual introductions as a guest teacher such as my name, teaching experience and my expectation for them for the next week. To my surprise, there were no outward signs of discontent shown to me. In fact, most students maintained a polite, well-controlled manner in spite of the sudden absence of their teacher.
At the beginning of each class, we warmed up and rehearsed the songs for graduation. Mr. Everts was right! The students knew their music impeccably, demonstrating great balance, phrasing, articulation and sound indicative of college level groups. I offered a few suggestions during rehearsals, but mostly gave pep talks and compliments to boost morale.
With graduation quickly approaching, announcements followed each rehearsal. The announcement centered around graduation (i.e., clothes to be worn, time for sound check for the choir, set up time for band members (required risers, music stands, percussion equipment and extra chairs, which were their responsibility).
I soon realized that, through Mr. Everts’ leadership, a strong work ethic was put into place among his students. He chose key students to be responsible for providing leadership in each performing group. For the announcements and advice, I looked to key students from both choir and band.
Samantha “Sam” Lucero provided guidance for the ladies and mixed choirs. BJ Jeffries and Audrey De Soto provided the same for the percussion class and concert band. They were professional toward their peers and to me. The students in return showed great respect to their leaders, often asking questions for clarification or offering added suggestions or advice. There was never anyone trying to outshine one another through bickering, put downs or ridicule. Everyone seemed to know their role, and their attitude was “we have a job to do and so let’s do it!”
A further example of strong work ethic was evident by such students as John Rodgers. He and his friends, names I do not recall, were in charge of separating, categorizing and filing all music and method books used this year. He spent many hours of class time and personal time during the closing days of school to complete these responsibilities.
After the week was concluded, I reflected on past times when I had some involvement with the Galt High Band as a parent during the late 80s and early 90s, when my now adult children were part of Galt High’s music program. I can honestly say the program then never reached the level it has attained in the last three years with Mr. Everts.
In closing, I would just like to take my hat off to the Galt High music students for maintaining a high level of professionalism during a very difficult time.
Finally, thanks to Mr. Everts, whose tenure was cut way too short, but whose love for his students, the love of music and his sure professionalism will live in the hearts and minds of his students for many years to come.
Don Ross
Retired Lodi Music Teacher and Former Galt Community Choir Director
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