The Rocky Point High School Marching Band led by Director Amy Schecher and Assistant Director Vincent Ragona, performed in the 2024 Newsday Marching Band Festival at Mitchel Field in Uniondale on Oct. 22.  The students performed a fun and challenging production titled, “Action Heroes.” This year marked the 60th anniversary of this annual event.
 
In 1963, the Newsday Marching Band Festival began with a one-day performance featuring 13 bands. This annual event has now expanded to cover three thrilling evenings of music and displays bands from across Nassau and Suffolk counties.
 
Rocky Point student percussionist Kristian Hald was named a nominee of the 2024 Gina Pellettiere Award of Recognition. Ms. Pellettiere, a music educator from Farmingdale High School who passed away last year, was a staple at this festival for many years, leading her musicians with unwavering passion while also serving on the Newsday Marching Band Festival Advisory Committee. Ms. Pellettiere symbolized a commitment to students and music. Her legacy of mentorship and musical excellence will forever be recognized with this special award. Congratulations Kristian!
 
A congratulatory message from Rocky Point Music Department chairpersons Mr. Craig Knapp and Ms. Amy Schecher read: “The students performed wonderfully in their Marching Band production. We are very proud of the students for doing such a great job. Thank you to the families of these very accomplished students for attending this special event and for the constant encouragement of their children’s involvement in the performing arts. We are extremely appreciative that the Rocky Point School District Administration and Board of Education supports these forms of experiences for the students and the music department.”