Indiana State Fair

Band Day

OPPORTUNITY: In 2021, James Stephens, Director of Advocacy and Educational Resources at Music for All, expressed an interest in helping the Music for All Indiana State Fair Band Day re-launch following a one-year absence in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The idea was to provide some “back on the track” enthusiasm with a music advocacy message during the “Sweet 16” Finals performances.

RESULTS: Fran Kick provided some opening comments to the audience and was able to interview students and directors following each band’s finals performance. His on the spot questions brought the stories to life so that the downtime between bands was minimized and the audience’s attention maintained—focusing on the importance of music education in our schools.

UPDATE: Fran was asked back in 2022 to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the Indiana State Fair Band Day.

“Thank you for being a part of the Indiana State Fair Band Day Finals. I know it took quite a bit of your time and energy to make that happen for the kids. It added quite a special touch to the program and it meant a lot to our kids. Thanks for recognizing the hard work that the students have put in this summer. Many life experiences, as you know, have been created through this activity. After 34 years of doing this, it has been quite a joy giving these guys those opportunities. Thanks again for everything that you do to promote kids and leadership.”

Kelly Smeltzer, Director

Jay County High School

“THANK YOU for making this event extra special! ALL of the directors were very appreciative of you being with us these past two years.”

Doug Fletcher

Band Day Coordinator

PRESENTED BY:

The Indiana State Fair Band Day is a marching band competition held at the Indiana State Fair in Indianapolis every August. The contest serves as the championship for the Central Indiana Track Show Association.

“Fran’s collaborative spirit is a model for synergy as he creatively unites our staff and sponsors to seamlessly deliver value above and beyond our expectations!”

James Stephens, Director of Advocacy and Educational Resources, Music for All

Indiana State Fair

Band Day

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