St Agnes Parish Secondary School marching band has a new beat

The St Agnes Parish Secondary School marching band was formed just over four months ago and has a decided US-influence.

The band comprises students from St Joseph's Regional College, MacKillop College and Newman Senior Technical College.

Spokesperson Sharon Green said the idea to form the marching band was to ensure the young musicians maintained their love of music.

“Keeping young musicians motivated is one of the key planks behind the decision to create the band,” she said.

"The band was formed to give Port Macquarie’s music students an opportunity to experience the American style of marching bands.

“The marching band also includes the decade-old Drum Line.

"We've also taken advantage of having two US teachers - Natasha Jones and Mark Spence - onboard.

"Musically, it extends the students and is simply designed to keep up their interest in music.

"This is totally new to our area and has never been tried before."

Mrs Green said students had responded enthusiastically.

"There is a bit of excitement around the formation of the band," she said.

The group plans to attend a camp in August where the band will be involved in learning some intensive marching band patterns.

Using their US connection, Mrs Green said intricate band movements are being choreographed for the young musicians.

"There is also the chance of the band heading to Florida in a few years' time to see US-based marching bands in action," she added.

Mrs Green said music was a lifelong passion and she hoped the marching band continued to motivate the students.

Along with Mrs Green, Sam Adams, Natasha Jones and Mark Spence are involved in the marching band.