Ryan Sanders held up his hand, smiled and told a band hall full of Hamlin Middle School students they would assemble brand-new instruments that day.
Students smiled at one another and cheered as Sanders, Hamlin’s band director, passed out cases filled with new instruments.
The excitement reflects a new sound at Hamlin. Last year, fewer than 60 students participated in band. This year, 150 students are making music together.
With that growth came the need for more instruments. The band started the year with just 40 instruments.
“We ended up getting a few dozen instruments with more on the way,” Sanders said, adding that the district’s Fine Arts department helped tremendously in securing additional instruments for students.
As students opened their cases, Sanders moved around the band hall helping them assemble flutes, clarinets and saxophones.
“I’m scared to break it!” several students shouted as they helped one another assemble their clarinets.
Once the instruments were assembled, students were ready to strike up the band and start practicing for game days, events and more.
Sanders said the program’s growth didn’t happen overnight.
“First it was about being visible, meaning that we perform every opportunity we can,” he said. “Second, it was about making sure the students already enrolled are having a good time in band. We also opened up more sections of band, thanks to our awesome counselors and administration.”
For Sanders, the best part of band is watching students form bonds and seeing them grow from beginner musicians into friends who can create music together.
Students have that enthusiasm. They shared they enjoy learning and playing music together, as well as traveling to perform at events.
“Mr. Sanders’ commitment to his students has created excitement, pride and a positive culture within the Hamlin’s band, building strong relationships that continue to inspire students and grow the program,” said Adan Molina, CCISD Fine Arts Specialist.