Marching To The Beat of A New Drum
October 12, 2022 2023-03-24 13:54Marching To The Beat of A New Drum
Meet DBHS’ New Band Director
The Deerfield Beach High Marching Band did not have much of a season for the 2020-2021 school year due to COVID. Their season was once again cut short in 2021-22 due to their band director taking a leave of absence for the majority of the year. This year’s season isn’t the only new thing for the Mighty Marching Bucks, a new director has stepped up and is ready to hold one outstanding performance after another.
On September 22nd, 2022, Kelvin Gunter, DBHS’ new band director arrived. Mr. Gunter is a Florida A&M University alumnus. He marched in FAMU’s Marching 100 and earned the Most Outstanding Band Member award at the university in 1984. Kelvin has over twenty years of teaching experience and has overseen high school marching bands comprising over 200 members.
“I love music and I love teaching”, said Mr. Gunter when asked why he accepted this position at DBHS.
He hopes to bring his knowledge to Deerfield and provide the opportunity for kids to create futures with music.
What does this mean for the marching band? Clarinet Section Leader, Rodlande Pierre believes that the change will be good for the after-school band clubs and activities. The attainment of a new band director could mean the return of a concert band, orchestra, and jazz band.
Senior Janiyah Clark says, “since Mr. Gunter started teaching here, I took on an instrument”. Janiyah is the captain of the elite beauty auxiliary team for the marching band, but she hopes to join the concert band when the activity returns.
From the day Kelvin Gunter came to Deerfield; he has inspired students to pursue their musical interests and explore their passions and possible career options. He hopes to provide these opportunities to all the students. The Marching Bucks are always open to new members. Students can find out more information by stopping at the band room after school from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
