It may be spring break, but on holidays, weekends, afterschool, anytime, these sixth, seventh, and eighth graders in the drumline at Springstowne Middle School are practicing. A safe place. Why they do it is all about motivation and expectations.
"I generally don't give them an option. They will succeed or not," said George Carrasco, the music director.
Inspiring thought. He came here four years ago and turned around a program that didn't even have instruments. He found many on eBay.
And he launched the color guard as well. It is a music program with a message.
"High standards. Don't accept anything but the best at all times," said Carrasco.
It's given the school recognition.
"Having a music department that is award winning we are the highest academic performing middle school in Vallejo City" said Jocelyn Hendrix, Principal of Springstowne Middle school.
How good are they? The last two years they've won the championship at the Northern California Band Association Competition, beating high schools.
Their performances have given the drumline a chance to make it big time. They've been invited to the National Championships in Dayton, Ohio in April, but there is a problem. They don't have the money. The school district and the city are in financial crisis.
The Boosters made up of parents and supporters, work tirelessly to raise money.
"The small business here have tried. We're getting a lot of personal donations, but we still need about $40,000," said Hernani Mac Dula from the Wildcat Band Boosters.
And they need it in just two weeks. It's why they've stepped up the fundraisers to keep the music going to the nationals.
"We're trying to make ends meet and in the process, put together enough money to fly to Dayton, house and transport, and of course perform," said Carrasco.
"It's going to be a tragedy if they don't make it to Dayton. Oh a tragedy," said Mac Dula.
To donate to the middle school and the band's booster account click on the link below.
Springstowne Wildcat Band Boosters: www.sbdcboosters.org
Please make all donations payable to: Wildcat Band Boosters
Donations can be mailed to two locations:
Springstowne Middle School
c/o Music Department
2833 Tennessee Street
Vallejo, CA 94591
First Bank
c/o Wildcat Band Boosters
116 Springstowne Center
Vallejo, CA 94591
Acct#: 1429180801
