The Harborfields High School Marching Band and kickline gathered at their home fields on Aug. 12 for the annual August clinic. This two-and-a-half-day summer event, where both groups come together to put together the field show for their fall performances, was shelved in 2020 due to COVID-19. Normally held at Farmingdale State College, the clinic was moved to Harborfields’ campus this year out of necessity, but the change of venue took nothing away from the students’ experience.
“In planning this year’s clinic, I was committed to providing as normal or typical an experience as possible,” said Marching Band Director Allison Scilla. “While some changes were necessary or inevitable, given the current climate, the experience still held true to its form, building camaraderie and a family atmosphere while focusing on the nuts and bolts of marching band. We remain so grateful to Dr. Manning, Mr. Russo and our Board of Education for their unwavering support of music in Harborfields.”
The students’ diligent work – pleasantly interrupted by team-building games, a visit from Mr. Softee, the clinic’s annual movie night and a fun gathering for the group’s seniors – culminated in a field show demonstration for family and friends.
“Hopefully the first of many performances for the season, this show ushered in the 2021-2022 school year on the right foot,” said Dan Bilawsky, the district’s K-12 music department coordinator.