NY Staff Band - Christmas 2009

Busy Christmas Season

The Christmas season is a busy time for everyone and for the band proved to be no exception. Following participation at the Greater New York Annual Luncheon and meeting one of the award recipients, Andy Pettitte of the New York Yankees, the band featured in a new venture with the Manhattan School of Music Brass Orchestra and Trombone Choir. This was unique in that Staff Bandsman Andrew Garcia, a recent graduate from the school, was able to perform with both groups during the joint concert. The Brass Orchestra was lead by the accomplished musician Mark Gould who was principal trumpet of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra for many years as well as being on the faculty of the Julliard School, was featured during the concert. Present in the enthusiastic audience were composers Dr. Harold Burgmayer and Joseph Turrin who both had compositions included in the program.

Of special interest were the young people from Manhattan Citadel. Theses young brass players shone brightly due to the hard work and guidance from Staff Bandsmen Andrew Garcia and Jon Quatela and showed what can be done with young people who have a passion for music.

Sunday morning worship was shared with friends at the Manhattan Adult Rehabilitation Center, in what has become an annual event. The band contributed with Christmas music as well as band singing, and the message was brought by Executive Officer, Lt. Colonel Kenneth W. Maynor. A popular time of testimony sharing was lead by Staff Bandsman Steve Ditmer.

Times Square Corps was the venue for a Sunday afternoon Christmas festival which also featured the Times Square young musicians who had an opportunity to play with the Staff Band, as well as play a number under the leadership of Gavin Whitehouse. A near capacity audience sang Christmas carols and many suggested that this should become an annual event.

- Captain Brian Clark
NYSB Public Relations Secretary

Additional Photos