Broadneck Brass Players Unite

Most Thursday afternoons during this school year, Broadneck area brass musicians from local elementary, middle and high schools traveled to Severn River Middle School to meet and learn from each other and play numerous tunes together.

The effort was coordinated by Matt Heist, band director of Broadneck High School, and Ryan Gorka, a former student of Heist’s who is studying music at Anne Arundel Community College. 

Kelli Ronning, instrumental music teacher for Broadneck area elementary schools, said this new program excites her young students.

“They love to interact with the older kids,” said Ronning who traveled to rehearsals after her own work day to support the effort. “They become better musicians as they rise up to play more challenging music.”

That sentiment is music to the ears of Heist, who hopes the program not only improves the level of students’ abilities but also encourages them to stick with band all the way through high school.

“I have to say, I learned a lot from them, too,” said Heist of the younger student players. “I am used to older kids, but these kids are really energetic. They are eager to try new things and they give me a new perspective with teaching.”

The group, which had been meeting regularly all year, performed a concert of their prepared pieces for friends and family before spring break. From “The Star-Spangled Banner” to classical numbers by William Byrd, the program featured many musical styles and challenges. 

Even Heist (a trumpet player) and Mike Tayman, instrumental music teacher at Severn River Middle and woodwind player, joined in on the numbers. Gorka served as the conductor for the program.

“I really enjoyed meeting the younger kids,” said Broadneck High senior trumpet player Alex Edwards. “Hopefully, they will stick with music. It is something they can continue to do all of their life.”

Editor's Note:  Mike Tayman is the husband of Laura Tayman, editor of Broadneck Patch.