PLAINVILLE — Plainville Public Schools Superintendent Jennifer Parson is pleased to announce that the Beatrice H. Wood School Band has returned this year bringing music education to students under the supervision of the school’s newly appointed band director.
At the beginning of the 2022-2023 school year, the Beatrice H. Wood School Band was relaunched following a multi-year hiatus after the band was discontinued due to budget constraints in 2020. The band was able to relaunch this year after funding from the Town of Plainville was made available to Plainville Public Schools this fall.
“The Town of Plainville, the Plainville School Committee and our district staff have worked diligently to relaunch this band program for our students,” said Superintendent Parson. “Music education is just as vital to our student’s school experience as any other program we offer. As such, I’m excited to watch these students learn new music skills and showcase their talent throughout the school year.”
The reinstated Beatrice H. Wood School Band is composed of 75 beginner musicians in grades four, five and six.
Each student received their instrument during the month of November and has since been developing their skills in small groups that are specific to their instrument. Once students are well versed in their individual instruments, all groups will come together to form one cohesive performing group. Students will first play together during the second week of February.
Gregory Mayer, Band Director
Gregory Mayer began his new role within the district on Nov. 1. In this role, Mayer oversees band rehearsals and performances, and trains and recruits new band members.
Mayer has over 30 years of experience in music education. Before this position, Mayer most recently worked for Walpole Public Schools as the Instrumental/Vocal/General Music Teacher & Curriculum Liaison.
He holds a master’s degree in music from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and a bachelor’s degree in music from the University of Massachusetts Lowell.
“It’s a privilege to be able to help bring music education back to the Wood School,” Mayer said. “I look forward to working with each student to help develop their skills and passion for music this year.”
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