As is the case every year, 2019-20 year has brought a lot of changes to Mount Carmel. One area of change is the introduction of new electives, including Drum Line, taught by Mr. Jamel Williams.

Williams, who last year assisted Music Director Bill Spakowski with the percussion section of band, was more than willing to add the new class to his teaching repertoire, which includes geometry and physics.

“When Mr. Spakowski suggested I teach the class, I was happy to accept.  I thought it would give students a chance to try something new.”

The new elective supplements basic music classes such as choir and band. Participants in Drum line are expected to perform in after-school events, including home football games. Drum Line also will perform in a Christmas concert with the choir and band just before winter break.

Next year, Williams hopes to develop relationships with local colleges that have strong music programs, “in order to give the boys a look into the music industry.”  He also expects that Dum Line will compete in several tournaments against other schools.

As a bonus, students in Drum Line will join the choir and band members on a spring break trip to Los Angeles. The trip will include instructional workshops and a performance at Disney Land, and will give students a chance to look at colleges in a city some have never experienced.