Members of

the Whitewater Middle School Band are having an interesting experience

these days. While preparing for an upcoming concert, many students are

getting ready to perform with their parents.

Band director

Bill Melton had heard of another band uniting students and their parents

for a performance and decided to give it a try. The band is now 130 members

strong and after several rehearsals will perform three patriotic tunes

at the concert Tuesday.

"A lot

of the parents still had their instruments," said Melton. "Many

of them said they hadn't played in a long time, but they were really enthused

to play again."

The combined

band will perform after performances from the eighth-grade concert band

and the Symphonic Band. The parents and students will perform "American

Tribute," which is a medley of patriotic tunes, "You're A Grand

Old Flag," and "Battle Hymn of the Republic."

Melton says

that almost all of the instruments are represented and though some of

the right notes were not played in the first rehearsal, the group played

with a lot of heart. Melton sent home the music and a CD with the children

so that parents could play along with the music at home and practice.

"It is

a very unifying experience," said Melton. "Often parents, students

and teachers are all going in their own direction. Music has been a great

unifier bringing everybody together."

The concert

looks to be a success, thanks to the support and sponsorship of many local

businesses and the assistance in organizing the event from many of the

parents. Melton plans on doing this every year as the response so far

has been excellent.

The concert

will begin at 7 p.m Tuesday and will be followed by a dessert reception.

The event is free. Phone 770-460-3450 for more information.