Mariner Middle School band performs at Shorebirds game

The Mariner Middle School band performed at a Delmarva Shorebirds baseball game April 26. For many of the students this was the biggest venue they have ever experienced.

“The kids were really excited to get to play in such a public setting," said Band Director Brian Mahoney. "I think that they felt proud to be representing their school using their musical talents.”

Mahoney has breathed new life into the band program at Mariner. His excitement about the band program has been infectious, and the students are eager to learn and grow by participating in the band program again.

“It's all about energy and attitude," Mahoney said. "Due to the lack of energy put into the program over the last decade, it has created a poor attitude toward being in band. And with all the sports offered, it's easy to see why students put their energy elsewhere. But it's time for that to change. This band is going to start making great music, because the talent is there. Once they get that reputation, they will be performing more, and kids will get excited about playing music, bringing more talent into the ensemble, making us grow.”

In upcoming years, Mahoney hopes to gain much-needed new equipment and grow the program.