Photo Provided Band Director Kyle Turley, from left, had some proud words of encouragement for Bridgeport High School’s young musicians during the annual marching band banquet. He is pictured with the senior band members Johnathan Wheaton, Gabriel Wheaton, McKayla Plants, Madison Marsh, Wyatt Kiger, Patricia Hall and Jasmine Gonzalez.

BRIDGEPORT — The young musicians of the Bridgeport Exempted Village School District marching band give their all in practice and on the field and can always be relied on to rouse some school spirit.

On Jan. 26, the district celebrated the band’s hard work with an annual banquet.

Band Director Kyle Turley presented awards. Turley is halfway through his first school year in the position and is thankful for the support of the board of education, administration and families as he works with band members to make them the best they can be.

“I really do feel like I’m part of the Bridgeport family. I’ve been welcomed into the district with open arms. Anytime I need help, I really have true support here,” he said, praising the quality of his students. “I love each and every one of you, and don’t stop shining.”

Afterward, he spoke more about the band’s strong start.

“Things are going great. Things are falling into place. The kids are amazing and wonderful and very helpful. They’re a strong working group. Any time I need something, they’re always willing to hop in and help,” he said. “They’re growing every day and I can see that, especially from when I started back in late July and August.”

Turley plans to concentrate on recruitment and generating more fundraising ideas.

“It’s a great school district to be in. A lot of support for the arts, especially the music department,” he said. “It’s a great school to be at, and a great community. I look forward to the next marching season of the 2025-2026 school year. Go Dogs!”

Awards were presented for band participation, leadership, and excellence, as well as top earners in the cheese sale fundraiser. Julia Kiger took first place while Jasmine Gonzalez tied with fifth grader Hannah from the middle school for second place.

The Bridgettes dance team was also recognized. coach Summer Toland said the school atmosphere helped the Bridgettes to excel.

“Everybody here is really just so great,” she said. “It’s one of the most kind, welcoming environments you’re going to find. Everybody is so willing to help and so excited to work with these kids.”

They were joined by board of education members Karrie Puskas and Patrick McConnaughy. Both are alumni and former band members. This recognition is near and dear to them.

Puskas, who played the flute, recalled the dedication to practice starting in mid-July as well as attending band camp. She learned to excel both individually and in sync with the rest of the players.

She said this is the best the band has sounded in years.

“You guys really rocked it this year. You guys put on great performances,” she said, commending Turley’s work. “He’s a Bulldog. We couldn’t ask for a better teacher that we have and a better band director with Mr. Turley. You guys did a wonderful job this year. It’s just going to continue going. It’s going to get better each year.”

McConnaughy, a snare drummer, agreed.

“It’s a family atmosphere,” he said. “Being in the band, those are memories you’ll never forget. Some of my best memories was bus rides to and from away games.”

Afterward, McConnaughy also complimented Turley.

“We’d like to thank the seniors and upperclassmen who welcomed him with open arms, the band boosters who also did the same thing.”

Some seniors reflected on their experiences.

Senior McKayla Plants, who plays the clarinet, has been involved in music since fifth grade and spoke of the supportive environment.

“Just being one big family is what keeps me going,” she said, recalling band competitions and building momentum for the team during games. “It’s one of my favorite things to get everyone excited.”

She said the band taught her the importance of teamwork, time management and practice.

“It is truly a family, and you have to work together to create this beautiful sound.”

Plants said the band’s future looks bright.

“I hope every year there’s new improvement and new interest,” she said. “It’s been a really great honor to be a part of it.”

Senior Jasmine Gonzalez plays the trumpet and has served as field commander for the past two years. She has been involved in music since middle school and has been part of the band for the past three years.

“The district has always been supportive of music,” she said. She had fond words for administrators such as Bridgeport High School Principal Jack Fisher. “We have a principal who definitely cares about music. I think it’s evolved and gotten better.”

She will carry many memories.

“I’ve made so many friends in band, I’ve had so much fun,” she said. “Everyone has a good time.”

Gonzalez said the most important lesson is practice and dedication to the craft. She was encouraged to take on many challenging musical pieces.

“It’s always pulled together in the end. Everyone supports each other. Everyone helps each other out, especially if they’re struggling on a piece of music.”

She added the band has only improved under Turley’s leadership.

“He’s amazing,” she said. “I see us progressing. I see us becoming a better band.”