Pep band returns to basketball games
As surrounding schools suffer cuts to music and the arts, music at WHS continues to thrive.
The WHS Music Dept. recently decided to bring back pep band.
Music Dept. member Doug Bennett explained that WHS last had a pep band in 2006, but the program was cut due to lack of funding.
But now the funding is again available, and Dan Fleischaker, will be directing.
“I have directed pep bands for the last 16 years at my previous schools, and I’ve come to really enjoy the atmosphere and friendships that come with directing this type of group,” Fleischaker said.
Due to the long absence from the community, many Wooster residents may be unfamiliar with pep bands.
“Simply put, a pep band is a small group of student musicians who perform music for athletic events. In this case, we’re performing for basketball games, to add excitement and energy to the game and to help motivate our teams and fans,” Fleischaker said.
Many band students expressed excitement for the group’s revival.
“I am excited for pep band. I’m glad that those involved in band are being provided with another opportunity to contribute to the school,” Emma Strong (10) said.
Some also feel pep band contributes to the school spirit campaign.
“I think pep band will increase fan spirit. School spirit is pride in our school, not just our athletics. But, hopefully, through pep band, we can make a few people love our school more,” Aaron Cochran (11) said.
Fleischaker emphasized pep band is ultimately about bringing musical students together in an enthusiastic atmosphere.
“I hope we can have fun making music, and supporting the teams. It’s another way to build a sense of family and teamwork within the band,” Fleischaker said.
Every student in the WHS bands is in pep band, but they will perform in smaller groups at six basketball games, starting Dec. 6.