Nothing 'Middle" About Bands' Top Honors

Pottstown Middle School students performing in Hershey's Music in the Parks.

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by the Pottstown School District.

Recently, the Pottstown Middle School’s concert and jazz bands, under the direction of Ben Hayes,

Ben Hayes with the 3 trophies.

competed in the annual “Music in the Parks” Music Festival held in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

Both bands earned first place with the highest possible rating of “Superior.” 

The jazz band was recognized not only for its talented play, but was the recipient of the coveted “Esprit De Corps” Award which recognizes the band that displays the best attitude, behavior, and sportsmanship throughout the entire festival.

“I am extremely proud of all of the accomplishments of our students and how well they represented Pottstown," Hayes said. 

"In the middle of our competition, an emergency occurred with a student from another school district and our students were asked to wait quietly in the auditorium," Hayes said. 

"While waiting, they noticed that the festival host needed help clearing the stage of chairs and other equipment. Our students, without being asked, volunteered to help," he said. 

"I try to teach my students, through music, character above all else and they showed their true character today.”

Pottstown Middle School’s music program has distinguished itself in the areas of concert and jazz band. 

They help to lay the foundation for the outstanding high school music programs and give the school district and the community another reason to say, “Proud to be from Pottstown.”