Four McGavock High School band students navigate a heavy vibraphone through the back door of the school’s band room to a parking lot. It’s a near-daily ritual during the fall marching season when students carry their instruments to a paved lot a few hundred yards from the school. For the past five years, band students have walked past the band’s tractor trailer, sitting unused in the parking lot; its once-bold McGavock Band decals peeling and faded by the sun.
Like many programs across the U.S., McGavock’s band was hit hard by COVID-19 and continues to face challenges. Marching band requires a significant commitment from students and parents, with long hours of after-school practice during the marching season.
“It’s a big commitment, but it’s worth it,” said sophomore trombonist Miles Pratt, “I enjoy playing my instrument, being with friends, and the energy I feel from the band and the audience when we perform.”
The band room at McGavock High School tells a story of the band’s legacy, with band competition trophies and banners lining the upper walls. The program was the most decorated high school band in Tennessee, boasting 25 state championships.
In music, a crescendo marks the passage from quiet to growing volume and intensity. Today, McGavock’s band is experiencing its own crescendo—a resurgence fueled by the growing confidence of young musicians, a new director of bands, and a committed network of parents and alumni.
A Fading Symbol and a Bridge to the Future
For five years, the band’s tractor trailer sat unused, its flaking graphics a symbol of past glory. That symbolism wasn’t lost on band alumnus Chad Stall, whose son Chase now plays percussion.
“Growing up, my parents, who met while in the McGavock band, would talk about band trips and winning competitions,” said Chase Stall, while packing up cymbals. “The music, our teachers, and even the trailer’s new look are helping us bring back that spirit.”
“The trailer's new graphic by RJ Young is more than just a decal,” said Chris Mudd, the McGavock director of bands. “It honors a legacy of excellence and the many hours of hard work by students, teachers, and band parents.”
“We like to live our company values of values of honoring people, supporting our customers, and promoting the communities we serve,” said Lindsey Jarvis, RJ Young’s major account executive for Metro Nashville schools. “The incredible legacy at McGavock makes it easy to support the school with technology and also as a partner in the student’s futures.”
Chad Stall shared how the band of his era received a boost of confidence rolling into competitions with their big McGavock trailer sporting the same logo as their blue, red, and white uniforms. Now, the new graphics, printed on RJ Young's 64-inch UV gel printer, ensure the decals' fade-resistant color stays as crisp as the band’s marching and as vibrant as their music.
RJ Young helps schools and universities elevate the learning experience. Our partnerships provide best-in-class services and support to improve teaching and optimize campus operations. From cutting-edge interactive boards and document management to essential printing, security, and promotional items, we provide the technology backbone institutions need to succeed.
Contact Lindsey Jarvis at: Lindsey.Jarvis@rjyoung.com or RJ Young's Digital Production Services at DPSCustomerCare@rjyoung.com