Jon Sutton was the director of the Greenwood Marching Woodmen for 24 years. 24 band seasons. 24 senior classes. 24 years of pushing the Greenwood music program, and his students, to strive for excellance. Mr. Sutton led Greenwood to their first ISSMA state championship. Many more would follow. But as other Greenwood directors have emphasized, the wins alone were not the goal. Sutton explains his vision of music education, “It is important for music educators to remember that while some of our students may pursue music as a career, it is our job to provide the skills to all of our students to help make them successful in their chosen profession. We are not only given the task to provide music education to the students but also to help make them productive members of society. Hearing from a student that graduated 10, 20, 30 years ago who thanks you for providing the tools that helped them be successful is the greatest reward a band director can receive.” Many students did choose to pursue music as a career after marching under Sutton’s guidance. And, although wins were not the most important goal, during Sutton’s time as director, only 3 senior classes would leave the school without a state championship under their belt!
Sutton was hired by Greenwood in 1982 as the Assistant Band Director working under Director Gary Fields. The summer of 1985 saw a very rapid change in the leadership of the Greenwood Marching Woodmen according to Sutton. “Gary told me on a Friday morning that he had interviewed for the assistant [director] job at Ben Davis and would know on Monday if he got the position,” he said. “I talked to [GHS Principal] Harold Crawford later that day to find out if I would be considered for the position should Gary leave. I was told that if I wanted the position it would be mine.” Sutton had been head director at a different school prior to Greenwood and had difficulties dealing with an administration that was not very supportive. He said, “Greenwood’s atmosphere was completely different in that the upper administration was very supportive of the band program.” Sutton spent the weekend weighing pros and cons with his wife Peggy and then sat down with middle school director Dan Rice. Sutton continued, “Dan and I discussed the potential of the band and what would be the best scenario for the students’ success. Peg, Dan and I all agreed that no matter what position I decided on that we were going to do the bulk of the work anyway because we could not get a new director hired in the time that we had.” On Monday, Gary Fields was notified that the Ben Davis job was his. Jon Sutton was made director of the Marching Woodmen later that day. Students learned of the change Tuesday morning when they arrived for band camp.
In a recent interview, former Marching Woodmen Kurt Weimer discussed the transition during his freshman year. “Mr. Sutton announced that he had been named the head band director, as Gary Fields had just taken the assistant director job at Ben Davis. I just remember thinking, ‘OK.’ I didn’t know what that meant, and the seniors were keen on keeping it that way. It just wasn’t a big deal because no one was going to allow the Greenwood band to skip a beat. In recent years, there have been only two head directors from 1985 to 2019 – almost 35 years. But in the 70’s and early 80’s, you had Van Veld, Knoll, Leslie, Roth, and Fields all in a 10 year span of time. That’s a LOT of change in a short period of time. MANY programs have failed under lesser conditions.”
1985 – Dress rehearsal at GHS.
Sutton hit the ground running. His first year as band director saw a leaner group of 129 members led by Drum Majors Rob Crowell, Leslie Magee & Jeff Van Valer and Irish Guard Captains Traci Brewer, Lori Schoolcraft & Laurie Wagner. “The band was down in numbers and very young as several upperclassmen left the program at the end of the previous school year but I felt I could get that fixed over the next couple of years,” said Sutton.
1985 – Greenwood Marching Woodmen
Assistant Director Matt Barmore led the Concert, Symphonic and Jazz bands. Mr. Sutton led the Wind Ensemble. Pam Wishmeyer was director of the Irish Guard. Wishmeyer soon became known as simply “Wish” to her students. The same nickname her husband shared as Ben Davis’ head band director.
Jon Sutton, Matt Barmore and Pam Wishmeyer
That fall, Center Grove hosted their very first invitational—the Cavalcade of Champions. They decided to host it the same day as Greenwood’s invitational – September 28. Both bands agreed to compete in each other’s contest in a show of support. Center Grove’s contest began at noon and Greenwood’s was in the evening starting at 6:45. Greenwood competed first at Center Grove and secured a 2nd place finish with captions for best guard and percussion. Center Grove then performed in Exhibition. Then the bands swapped and Center Grove competed at GHS and the Marching Woodmen ended the day in exhibition. The Greenwood Invitational had grown in both size and reputation. Director Jon Sutton agreed,”I believe this show is second only to the state finals when you compare the competition.” Including Greenwood and Center Grove, the competition included Carmel, Jasper, Lawrence North, Northview, Maconaquah, Madison Heights, Martinsville, Southport, Warren Central and Whiteland. Center Grove finished in 1st place.
1985 – Marching contest
Students were asked about the hard work that is needed to be a competitive marching band. “This takes all of your time. It takes a lot of dedication. You can’t think of anything else but doing what it takes,” said GHS senior Stacey Hughes. “Ever since I was in grade school, I wanted to be in the marching band,” she said. Senior Mickey Deering had a different perspective. “I’m in the band because all of my friends and the good-looking girls are in the band,” he said laughing. “Really, though, I feel like it’s the best thing going at the school.” Band directors offered insight on the success and growth of local bands. Center Grove Director Tom Dirks said in addition to all the blood, sweat and tears, “It has to be fun too. If it wasn’t so much fun, you wouldn’t see that many people involved in it.” Franklin Director Ron Weimer said, “It’s one of the few groups in high school where all four grades combine to form one program. No one sits on the bench in band.”
Director Sutton was asked about the evolution of marching shows. “There has been a tremendous evolution since the 60’s when I got involved with my high school band,” he said. “The step style during the 60’s was either a chair step or the ankle/knee step. Also, the band formations were very linear with all straight lines. There was no backward marching. Instrument direction was always in the direction you were marching so if you were marching towards the end zone your instrument was pointed toward the end zone. Therefore, the sound the audience heard constantly changed.”
Greenwood Assistant Director Matt Barmore said now high school bands are putting more emphasis on drum and bugle corps style shows. “Last year, (1984) for the first time, all 40 of the state band finalists had drum and bugle corps shows,” he said.
Sutton commented on the corps influence, “The step used by the corps (we called it a corps step) was much more friendly to producing a good sound on the instrument. It was more of a walking step with the heel being placed and the foot rolling into the step position (very similar to today’s style). The quality of sound improved greatly because of this step.”
Dirks added,”The styles are still entertaining, but you are seeing more classical music played on the field. You are seeing a high quality of musical literature out there.” Sutton agreed, “The early 80’s saw the introduction of ‘grounded percussion’ or what we called the ‘Pit’. It started with timpani and one or two mallet instruments. Music performed during this time eliminated marches and introduced classical, jazz, Broadway show tunes and TV/movie themes.”
In the 80’s, the fall field show competitions became dominant over the summer track shows. More than 200 Indiana high school bands will be competing this year for a spot at State Finals in the Hoosier Dome.
Greenwood’s 1985 show featured “Carnival Overture” by Antonin Dvorak, “Ol’ Man River” by Jerome Kern and “The Poet and the Peasant Overture,” by Franz von Suppe. Greenwood began the season at Southport High School’s District competition on October 5 where they won a Division I rating.
The band headed south on October 12 to compete at the Festival of Champions at Murray State University in Murray, Kentucky. They finished the day in 5th place.
1985 – October 12 – Festival of Champions at Murray State University in Murray Kentucky. Preliminary competition.
Kurt Weimer shared memories of the competition from his freshman year. “It was time for our prelims show. It had been raining that day all the way up to getting on the field. We are set, and ready to play the Woodmen Warmup for the first time that season. The rain stopped and, I swear to you, visible to the entire band facing backfield was a rainbow. I mean, you have got to be kidding me. What kind of cult magic have I been drawn into? And we do our show and make finals that night. I’ll never forget Mr. Sutton coming around to tune each person individually.’Wow! Nice sound.’ I mean, I’d never been told that before (because it hadn’t been a nice sound). Compliments didn’t come frequently from Mr. Sutton, but when they did, their impact was deep, and meant everything. To this day I remember every single detail of that moment.”
Former Greenwood director Herman Knoll saw them perform in Kentucky and “…knew they had something special going.”
October 19 saw Greenwood at regional competition at Martinsville.
State Finals were October 26. Greenwood tied with Northview for 4th place after Lawrence North, East Noble and Lebanon. Center Grove moved to Class A this season and finished 2nd. Drum major Rob Crowell shared his thoughts on the 1985 season, “With Mr. Sutton moving up to head band director, the feel was different”, Crowell continued, “His ability to lead and get the most of everyone is what took us over the top. I thought we had the show to win in ‘85 and was truly dissatisfied with the tie for 4th. As a junior drum major, I really wanted the title for our seniors.”
The Greenwood Fire Department carried on their tradition of escorting the band back to the school. There were the usual wrap-up talks and then Mr. Sutton told the band they were free to go once everything had been put away. “I went into my office and it was real quiet in the music area,” he said, “I thought this was a little unusual. So, I went outside to see what was going on and there they were, out in the parking lot, doing their whole show for the people who were there to greet them.”
Kurt Weimer and his fellow students witnessed the dedication and love the Suttons brought to the music program at Greenwood. “There were times my friends and I would be out driving around at 8, 9, 10pm, and there in the high school parking lot would be Mr. Sutton’s lone vehicle. He and Mrs. Sutton (Peggy) were completely dedicated to the Greenwood Band. We were their kids. And there were a great deal of us who needed two sets of parents. Mr. Sutton NEVER wasted anyone’s time. He was a deep planner, super-organized, and laser focused. It was how he showed he cared for us.” Weimer would become drum major his senior year. He was further inspired by Jon Sutton to become a music educator himself. Weimer was an Indiana band director for 25 years.
1986 – Concert Band.
1986 – Symphonic Band.
1986 – Wind Ensemble.
The following spring, Greenwood hosted the Indiana High School Color Guard state finals.
1986 – IHSCGA State Finals at GHS.
Mr. Sutton wrote a letter to the editor of the Daily Journal following the IHSCGA competition.
“On Saturday, Greenwood High School hosted the IHSCGA State Finals. I would like to publicly express my appreciation for all the hard work that the Greenwood Band Parents and Greenwood students put into running this major contest. Their preparation and thoroughness made the event run extremely smooth and provided a setting worthy of any state-level competition.
“An additional thank you goes to the Greenwood paramedics for being at the contest the entire day and providing assistance whenever needed. The Greenwood police also need to be thanked for their assistance with traffic flow after the contest.
“Finally, the Greenwood Irish Guard need to be commended on representing the high school, and the entire community, with such a high standard of dedication and performance.”
1986 – Greenwood Winter Guard.
At Band Camp in August 1986, Jon Sutton told the Marching Woodmen that, “…it had been ten years since this band won a major championship. It was long overdue, and this was the year to do it.”
Mr. Sutton had gathered talent around him to support and grow the program. Kurt Weimer explained,”The music arrangements for many years to come were done by Richard Saucedo, the band director at Carmel who would become one of the most respected composers of band music. The drill was by Lance Lovejoy and Matt James (who eventually comes to Greenwood as an assistant). Greg Hagen joined Pam Wishmeyer to write and teach the Irish Guard, and of course Danny Fyffe, Greenwood alum, was the percussion writer and instructor. Greenwood grads Jim Haskell and Todd Clevenger assisted at camp and many rehearsals. Jon Sutton had assembled the design and instruction ‘Dream Team’ of the late 80’s.”
September 20, Greenwood placed third at the Carmel Invitational and won captions for guard, marching & maneuvering.
Greenwood and Center Grove again hosted invitationals on the same day and made the same arrangements to compete in each other’s contest on September 27. Greenwood’s invitational began at 7pm with competitors from Center Grove, Whiteland, Highland, New Castle, Kokomo, Northview, Plainfield, Jasper, Scottsburg, Carmel, Mooresville, Lebanon and Martinsville. Greenwood competed at Center Grove at 1:15pm and then performed in exhibition back home at 9:49pm. Coincidentally, Greenwood won the Center Grove invitational and Center Grove won at Greenwood.
October 11 was the Southport District contest. Greenwood won their class as well as all captions for music, marching, general effect and auxiliary. They moved on to the Class B Regionals at Columbus East on October 18. The Woodmen took the field to the traditional band cheer led by band parent Len Koenig. Len and his wife Bonnie were cheering on their daughter Tracie, a member of the Irish Guard. “It’s exciting,” he said. “It gives you a big thrill knowing your kids are out there.” Bonnie believed one area where Greenwood stands out is discipline. “It shows when it’s all over and they’re standing out there (on the field) at attention. [Mr. Sutton] doesn’t let them hang around down there,” she said motioning to other band members milling around at the edge of the field. Bonnie joked that the parents might not behave as well. “The kids are disciplined, the parents get a little rowdy.”
1986 – Regionals – Bonnie and Len Koenig.
Band parent Martha Childers agreed, “The kids have to wait till they get back on the bus to party. We do it right here,” she said. The parents volunteer their time sewing flags, preparing uniforms and loading equipment. “We put in hours and hours and hours,” said Bonnie, “and it’s worth every bit of it.” Len Koenig added, “It’s a special group. Even in school they stick together and they help each other out if somebody is falling behind in grades.” The Greenwood Band Parents work together to manage fund raisers and support the band on and off the field. Len concluded,”It’s important for the kids to know we’re here. We’ve got two more after Tracie, and we’ll be here. We’re looking forward to it.”
At the Class B Regional, Greenwood won first place. Director Sutton believed this was to be a winning year. “Sometimes, things fall in place for you and sometimes they don’t,” he said. “Everything seems to be working well this year.” He would be proved correct on October 25 when the Woodmen marched into the Hoosier Dome and won their very first ISSMA State Finals.
1986 – ISSMA Marching Finals.
Sutton said, “I am extremely proud of our kids and we are very thankful. There were a lot of good bands there.” Sutton pointed out that their victory was noteworthy because 80% of the band members were freshmen and sophomores. “Hopefully things will work out for us again next year,” he said. “But it all depends on how hard the kids will work, if their minds are in the right places, and how disciplined they are.” Greenwood’s first ISSMA championship marked exactly 10 years since they won the Indiana State Fair band day competition. Sutton confirmed that the ISSMA competition is now stronger than the State Fair contest.
Brett Pryor senior trumpet, “We worked very hard this year. It’s a feeling like I’ve never felt before.We probably couldn’t have done it without the support of the school and football team. It seemed we had more support this year from the school than we’ve ever had in the past and I think that’s probably what made the difference. We were jumping and screaming, and about 80 or 90 percent of the people were crying.”
Drum major Rob Crowell summed up the season succinctly, “1986 was just special. Great show and great drive from the top down.”
1986 – Drum Major Rob Crowell – Photo courtesy of Brenda May
Per tradition, Greenwood’s buses were escorted back to the school by the Greenwood Fire Department with sirens declaring the victory. As the buses arrived back at the high school, a light rain began. But it didn’t dampen anyone’s spirits. The band parents had been planning a surprise for some time. As the Woodmen exited their buses, they were treated to a fireworks display set off in the far corner of the parking lot. Parents pitched in $300 towards the 15 minute show. Band Parent President Cheryl Schoolcraft said, “These kids have worked really hard this year. We just felt they deserved something special. It didn’t matter what they placed, we’ve been proud of all their accomplishments.” Freshman Beth Cody said, “I thought it was exciting. I thought it was something neat that the parents would do this for us.” And there were further surprises. The Greenwood football team repaid the band for playing in the cold and rain at all the football games by standing in the rain to greet and honor them. And the Northview High School band was also on hand to share in the celebration. Northview and Greenwood had tied for 4th place at last year’s state finals, but Northview failed to make it to state this year.
1986 – The band back at GHS after a victorious Finals win.
Band supporter Ann Kemple said she saw more enthusiasm this year. “I’ve been helping eight years and I saw more excitement this time than ever before.” Kemple hasn’t had a child in the band program for 5 years, but says her enthusiasm has not faded. “Once you get bitten by the band bug,” she said, “you never get rid of it. There’s no cure.”
Kurt Weimer added a final thought about the season, “The thing I remember most about that season was the band performing for the school at an assembly. State Champion shirts had been ordered and we wore them as we performed for the student body. That was a big deal. Respect from the student body waxed and waned over the years, and it showed that the hard work done on the parking lot actually meant something, and they were being presented with what a state champion looked and sounded like.”
In 1984, Jeanette Surina made Greenwood history as the first woman elected as mayor. Surina was re-elected four years later. During her term, a new Greenwood Community Center, police and fire department headquarters were planned. Also, the old Polk Community House was refurbished and christened the new Greenwood City building. Fresh off their state finals win, the Marching Woodmen paraded behind Mayor Surina, riding in a vintage convertible, down Madison Avenue to the new city building. The area encompassing the Community Center, Police and Fire Department buildings were renamed Surina Square following her passing from cancer in July 1991.
For Jenni
The spring of 1987 saw the Greenwood band, and the Greenwood community, come together like never before. They all united around a 17-year-old girl named Jennifer Stretchberry. Jenni was an honor student and two-year member of the Irish Guard. In 1985, she was diagnosed with leukemia. Through antibiotics and chemotherapy, Jenni’s doctors were able to stall the disease’s progress until December of 1986, when it advanced rapidly. When Jenni and her mother, Susan Mills Stretchberry, were interviewed in February, 1987, they were cautiously optimistic. They hoped that a round of chemotherapy would send the leukemia into remission long enough for a bone marrow transplant from Jenni’s younger sister Barbara. “I’m 17 years old and I am too young to die,” said Jenni. “And I’m not going to die.”
1987 – February – Irish Guard member Jenni Stretchberry and her mother.
The transplant was to cost a staggering $250,000. Greenwood teachers, students, friends, local businesses and even local celebrities pitched in to raise the needed funds. Greenwood seniors donated $1,000 from their treasury. There were bake sales, dinners, dances, a fun run and more. Rock singer Henry Lee Summer and his band squared off against WZPL radio deejays in a basketball game in the GHS gym. The Indiana Pacer’s Pacemates also performed. Following the game, WZPL played music for a dance and Summer signed autographs. All proceeds went to Jenni’s treatment.
1987 – Henry Lee Summer
People canvassed the community with donation cans with Jenni’s picture. Jenni and her mother tried to remain upbeat, but admit they have cried together through the night in her bed at Methodist Hospital. Jenni’s walls are covered with cards and letters from friends, family and Greenwood classmates. “I have a lot of support and a lot of people praying for me,” she said. The hoped for remission was not to be. Jenni grew weaker. She did attend the Winter Guard State Finals to cheer on her firends. After finals, Jenni’s mother decided to take her on a cruise, a last family vacation. Jenni passed away peacefully during the trip on March 31. The Irish Guard dedicated their 1987 WGI performance to the memory of Jenni. For a brief time, Jenni became the life force for the Greenwood community. Carol Miller from the Daily Journal wrote, “If love and faith were the cure for leukemia, Jenni would still be alive. Each of us who knew her is holding on to our own special memory about this special girl.” Her memory lives on in the minds of everyone who knew her. The Greenwood Irish Guard honor Jenni to this day with the Jennifer Stretchberry award given annually to a member of the Irish Guard.
1987 – Greenwood Irish Guard
August 28, 1987, Greenwood and Center Grove varsity football teams battled it out in the Hoosier Dome in a pre-season game. Both Greenwood and Center Grove marching bands provided the halftime entertainment.
Jon Sutton said he is having no trouble getting band members ready to pursue another title. “This band was second, third and fourth for too many years to assume they are going to win anything,” said Sutton. “I have made it very clear that it was last year’s band that won the state title. If anything, we may be a little more intense as we get ready for the upcoming shows.” Their show music for 1987 includes “Emperata Overture,” by Claude T. Smith, “La Suerte de los Tontos,” by Johnny Richards and “Shawnee Overture,” by Paul Gilchrist.
On September 19 the band competed at the Carmel Invitational – placing second. Then, in a repeat from last year, on September 26. Greenwood won Center Grove’s contest and Center Grove won Greenwood’s. Greenwood also won the grand championship at Center Grove. Jon Sutton,”I think we’re in good shape right now. We’ve got a lot of things to fix and improve, but I’m pleased with where we are.”
District competition followed on October 3. Greenwood returned to Southport at 1:33pm. Prior to District competition, Greenwood Irish Guard senior, Jennifer Simpson, said the band was in good shape to defend their state title. “We have a really good show this year,” she said. “All we have to do is perform our show. Nobody in our class has beat us this year.” Director Sutton agreed that the Woodmen will be strong contenders this year. But, he anticipated strong challenges from Northview, Western, Goshen, Plainfield and Scottsburg. 198 bands competed at District and 124 advanced to the Regional round on October 17. Greenwood won all class B captions at Southport and moved on to Bedford North Lawrence.
Prior to Regional competition, Jon Sutton announced that the Marching Woodmen would travel to the University of Cincinnati’s Nippert Stadium for their Music Bowl competition sponsored by Beatrice Foods. This multi-state competition drew bands from Indiana, Ohio, Illinois and Georgia. Jon Sutton shared his memories of this competition and described it as a favorite of his. “[1987] was an exceptional year overall but the circumstances surrounding the Cincinnati Music Bowl were what made it so memorable. We had a Saturday mid-morning performance time. It was a prelims contest during the day with the finals that evening. We had a home football game on Friday so we did the halftime show and then loaded the buses to head toward Cincinnati. We were planning on arriving about 11:00 PM at a high school gym in Kentucky where we were planning to stay Friday night and Saturday night. Unfortunately, about half way there we had bus troubles. We had to wait until the bus garage could get us another bus. We spent nearly two hours sitting on the interstate waiting for the other bus. By the time we made the transfers and got to the school it was nearly 2:00 AM. By the time we unloaded and got the students down to sleep on the gym floor it was almost 3:00. We got the students up at 6:00 AM and headed to the university. The students were exhausted, had no energy and were in for what I thought was going to be a really rough performance. We got the students dressed on the buses and moved to the parking lot for warm-up. It was a really poor warm-up and we then moved to the stadium with no energy whatsoever. While standing at the end zone waiting to enter the field the students just had blank stares on their faces. The announcer introduced the ‘Greenwood Marching Woodmen’ and a transformation took place that I did not think would happen. They straightened their spines, lifted their chins and became so focused that they were almost scary. They gave their best performance of the year. As they exited the field I could see all of the steam come out of them when they crossed the end zone line. They were back to being zombie like as soon as they exited the field but for the nine minutes of the show they were all focus, energy and attitude.
1987 – Cincinnati Music Bowl – Photo courtesy of Brenda May
“We had originally planned on keeping the band at the stadium until the finals were announced. But, they were so tired we put them back on the buses to send them back to the high school to get some rest. Unfortunately, one of the buses would not start so they spent another two hours waiting to get the bus repaired. Finally we got them back to the school where they got a little sleep and were fed by the band parents. The drum majors, me and my wife stayed and watched the bands and waited for the finalists to be announced. Even though the band had a great performance I was not sure we were going to make the finals. We watched some very big and very good bands. We were announced as a finalist and when I went to the press box to get the recap we had won the prelims by an unbelievable 10 point spread! I remember the other directors wanting to know who this ‘Greenwood Band’ was and how anyone could win by that margin. I was shocked and had no idea what to say to them.
“Our students got very little sleep that afternoon and came back to the stadium in the same zombie state they had before the morning competition. We were marching last in the finals performance. This contest was one of several across the country sponsored by Beatrice Foods and it was well attended and always had something special for the students and audience. This year’s finals featured jazz great Maynard Ferguson for a performance before finals began and also during the delay before awards. He also presented the trophies during the awards ceremony. The students were still tired and drug themselves to the starting line. But again, when they were announced, they pulled themselves together and gave another outstanding performance. This one was even more special with help from the university’s power plant and the director of the U of C marching band. The air had cooled and the steam that normally rose from the power plant (which was located directly behind the stadium) had just started to drop to the surface of the stadium field. The band performed their whole show with the fog laying on the ground about 3 feet deep. It gave the impression that the band was floating from position to position. The other thing that made that a memorable performance was that the stands were packed beyond capacity. It was a large crowd to begin with and then all of the other bands crowded into the stands to watch the Greenwood performance. On top of that the U of C director told his students, who were working the concession stands, to close them up and go into the stadium to watch this Greenwood Band. You could not tell where the aisles were because they were all full of band students. The Marching Woodmen won the Cincinnati Music Bowl finals by 10 points and were presented the Championship Trophy by Maynard Ferguson. After a well-deserved rest Saturday night, the band went to the Cincinnati Zoo on Sunday before returning home that evening. These were the most gutsy performances by a group of students that I can remember. No matter the circumstances, they found a way to pull themselves together to always give a great performance. They were filled with pride and dedication.”
Kurt Weimer details the trepidation at the 1987 regional competition. “The next weekend, there was a mishap at the beginning of our show at regionals. It was the longest 30 seconds of our lives at that point. Mr. Sutton prepared us for the worst – the possibility of the band not advancing to state finals. [Fortunately,] we still advanced.”
1987 – ISSMA Regionals – Drum Majors Lora Adams, Mark Adams and Laura Hutton
The week leading into State Finals saw the Marching Woodmen striving daily to improve their performance. Jon Sutton explains,”We are in the process of what we call ‘cleaning’ right now. It means we have our show in, and we are in the process of fine-tuning it, getting everybody on the right step, getting everyone’s timing the same, getting everybody turning at the same time, getting the musical expression going.” Drum Major Laura Hutton said last year’s finals victory gave the band an edge of confidence. “I think we have a really good chance to win again,” she said. “We have an incredible show.” Hutton also stressed that band members are not getting over confident. They are all pushing harder to a repeat win. “We’ll be trying to make the show perfect. Everyone really kicks into gear the last week,” she said. Jon Sutton said this was a very important week. “They need to approach the competition as defending champions,” he said. “There’s a little more pressure maybe, but there’s also a little more confidence. They know what it’s like to win and they like the feeling.” Sutton stressed his main goal every season is for his students to learn. Winning comes second. Scott Foster – sophomore trombone – says he has “concentrated on holding onto the championship by blocking out thoughts of other bands.” Foster expects tough competition from Northview and Scottsburg.
Traditions continued the week of state finals. Band parents had decorated utility poles around Greenwood and adorned the Polk building with green and yellow streamers. Before finals, signs outide the school read, “Make the Dome Glow! Go for Two in a Row!” The annual band picnic was Thursday at Craig Park. In a tradition that continues today, students gather to sing their show. The following morning, Director Sutton will be roused from bed by another Greenwood tradition, serenade. Band members gather before dawn on the street in front of the director’s house to play their show.
Then the Marching Woodmen were off to the Hoosier Dome. Their performance was at 4:42pm. After the finals performance, Sutton summed up his impression, “They performed to the maximum that they could. That was the best they had done all year, and you couldn’t have asked for their best performance at a better time.” In 2009, Jon Sutton discussed the competition season. “With the 1987 show, everything fell into place; it all fit together. The students were wonderful and we won every contest we competed in. The closest competition we had was nine points. Then we went on to win State Finals with a 10-point spread!”
1987 – ISSMA Marching Finals
Jon Sutton said,”It feels just as good the second time around.” Sophomore Mark Wicklein disagreed,”It’s better the second time around!” Rissa Kroll, sophomore guard, said she felt more pressure this year defending the title. The pressure caused her to lose her timing at one point. “But everyone says they didn’t notice,” Kroll said. Rissa and her brother, senior snare drum player John Kroll, now have two state titles under their belts. But that’s not enough for her. “I want four in a row,” she said. “We were confident we could win it, but any small thing can go wrong.” said senior Mike Mittman. “That’s probably what was going through everyone’s head. You don’t want to make the mistakes you’ve made in the past. You want it to be perfect.”
1987 – ISSMA Marching Finals – Drum Majors Lora Adams, Mark Adams and Laura Hutton.
1987 – ISSMA Marching Finals – Matt James, Jon Sutton, Guard Captain, Lance Lovejoy, Drum Major Lora Adams, Matt Barmore, Drum Major Mark Adams, Dan Rice, Drum Major Laura Hutton, Greg Hagen and Pam Wishmeyer.
In years to come, this Greenwood performance would be showcased at judging clinics nationwide as an example of performance excellence.
The band was treated to the traditional dinner at McDonald’s on County Line Rd., then a police escort back to the school. Band parents again arranged for fireworks and then a reception inside the school.
1987 – Post finals concert at GHS – Principal Harold Crawford with ISSMA champion trophy.
1986 – One winning season’s trophies and Drum Majors Lora Adams, Mark Adams and Laura Hutton.
The Marching Woodmen next perform at the Hoosier Dome November 8 during halftime at the Colts / Chargers game.
1987 – Band members and Director Jon Sutton at Fast Patties restaurant near Greenwood Mall.
In the spring of 1988 the Irish Guard competed with a “fashion show” theme. The many costume changes proved challenging. But, like fashion itself, director Greg Hagen said,”This show will never be over, and even when it’s over, it won’t really be over because it will live in our memories forever.” The Irish Guard’s competition season was as follows:
Shenandoah – 2nd place
Maconaquah – 2nd place
Kokomo – 2nd place
Muncie/Cowan – 1st place
Hamilton Southeastern – 1st place
Warsaw – 1st place
Terre Haute South – 1st place
WGI Midwest Regional – 3rd place
IHSCGA Finals – 2nd place
WGI Olympics – 6th place
1988 – Greenwood Irish Guard
1988 – Greenwood Irish Guard Showguard
Greenwood began the 1988 band season with band camp at Ball State University in Muncie. 182 students, staff and parents attended.
The show music for 1988 was “Variants,” by Jack Bullock, “Home on the Range,” by Daniel E. Kelley and “Northridge Overture,” by David Shaffer. The band mantra was “Make it Three Straight in ’88!”
1988 – Greenwood Marching Woodmen staff – Greg Hagen, Dan Rice, Jon Sutton, Pam Schafer, Matt Barmore
Timberlines, the school newspaper, did a feature story on drum majors Lora Adams, Kurt Weimer and Mike Cleary. “Sure, being drum major is hard work because there is more pressure. If you make a mistake, you could ruin the show for the whole band,” said Mike Cleary. “But it can also be a lot of fun.” Try outs for drum major are held in May of the previous school year. They work on directing, marching and giving commands. “I was very nervous the first time I tried out,” said Lora. “I didn’t think I would make it.” After the three were picked, they attended drum major camp at DePauw University on July 3rd, 4th and 5th. They learned their responsibilities and new directing styles. “Drum major camp was a blast,” said Weimer. “We got to meet drum majors from other schools and made many friends.”
1988 – Drum Majors Mike Cleary, Lora Adams and Kurt Weimer
Kurt Weimer is directing the “Opener” which is titled “Variants.” “I love the opener,” exclaimed Kurt. “It is an intense, fast-paced song – a good song to direct. Whether we win state or not depends on how much the band wants it. But, we certainly have a good shot at three in a row.”
Mike Cleary is a junior and directing the “Concert” section of the program. It is titled “Home on the Range.” According to Mike, “It really cooks.” When asked about their chances to win state finals, Mike says, “We will do really well this year and have a good chance of winning State for the third time in a row.” Mike loves being a drum major and his only disadvantage is his fear of falling off the drum major box. “I’m afraid of heights,” he adds with a grin.
As a second year drum major, and also the lead, Lora is the veteran of the group. She will be directing the “Closer” which is called “Northridge Overture.” “It is a very well disciplined band. They take orders pretty well without smarting off.”
Timberlines finished the article by asking students, “What has band done for you?”
John Wilson – Sophomore
“Band has shown me the way to a new career. I hope to be able to make it as a professional musician.”
Ryan Smith – Senior
“Band has given me self-discipline and the opportunity to develop leadership qualities. A sense of team work and accomplishment is achieved through each successful performance.”
Wanda May – Senior
“It’s given me lots of great friendships and taught me to respect hard workers.”
Corinne Kachler – Freshman
“The band has given me the ability to work hard for something I really want. It’s given me a sense of pride and a lot of new friends.”
Kurt Weimer – Senior
“It has given me respect, maturity, leadership, good music ability and a start in a career in music.”
Tim Pinckert – Senior
“There is a strong sense of unity and friendship, and it helps build character. You learn a lot of responsibility, and at the same time, how to respect authority. It lets you take pride in something and have fun at the same time.”
Linda Medsker – Senior
“I’ve learned about responsibility and about being on time. It has brought good times and good friends.”
Chad Campbell – Junior
“Band has given me the opportunity to make more friends through an activity that I enjoy. Band has also given me the chance to show my dedication and school spirit.”
Cindi Schoolcrcaft – Junior
“It’s a great place to meet people.”
Years later, Kurt Weimer reminisced about his senior year, “I finally earned the job of being a drum major my senior year. I loved to march but I had always wanted to conduct. The 1988 band was the largest in recent years [nearly 160]. We took a chance on avant guard music for our opener that was 200+ beats per minute. Dave Herrick joined the band staff as the percussion instructor. Anyone who remembers the summer of ’88 will recall 100 degree temperatures and drought that devastated the west with forest fires. Coupling a highly physical/fast opener with 100 degree HUMID temperatures was downright horrible, particularly for the kids who overloaded the elevator and were stuck for quite a long time.”
Their competition season began with a double-header on September 17 with invitationals at Lawrence Central (12:23pm) and Carmel (7:15pm). In addition to winning their class at both cometitions, Greenwood was also named grand champion at both. Next up was the Center Grove Invitational on September 24 (3rd place) followed by an exhibition performance at Greenwood’s invitational that same evening.
Greenwood was planning to compete again in the Cincinnati Music Bowl contest, but when rain disrupted the district competition, plans had to change. Kurt Weimer recalls the disappointing change of plans. “Probably the biggest disappointment was the ISSMA district rainout. It meant we’d have to perform at the district contest on the rain date the following weekend–the same weekend as the Nippert Music Bowl we were scheduled to attend to “defend” our championship. I’ll never forget being in the auditorium when Mr Sutton announced that. It was absolute disappointment from everyone. We were allowed to perform that night in exhibition as the “reigning champion” from the previous year, but it just wasn’t the same.”
1988 – Cincinnati Music Bowl exhibition performance
Greenwood performed at Regionals at Columbus East. They next traveled to Wabash College on October 22 to compete in the North Montgomery Invitational. The Marching Woodmen won 1st place.
1988 – Marching practice
Sandi Ransburg composed a poem prior to the 1988 finals based on “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.”
It was the practice before State and all in the stands,
not a creature was stirring, not even the band.
Mr Sutton in his safari hat,
Mr. Barmore in a paisley tie and boat shoes (without socks),
had just finished reading the news.
The weather report suggested some rain,
(but we were playing in the Hoosier Dome, who cares about rain?)
The drumline was ready, had been for hours,
the opener had more than enough power.
Mr. Hagen warmed the Guard up with a few twirls,
Mr. Harik needed a hair cut, he looked like a girl.
The parents were snuggled way down in their coats,
everyone had a whole lot of hopes.
When off of the line, there arose such a clatter,
the directors looked around to see what was the matter.
It was a rainbow, high up in the sky,
everyone hollered and pointed and exclaimed with a sigh.
“It’s a rainbow, Mr. Sutton, look at it glow!”
They all knew then, that it wouldn’t go.
The rainbow stayed put all through the concert tune,
and spirits were lifted almost to the moon.
The runs were phenomenal, the hit-points were hit.
The directors, so drained, on the tower did sit.
Then all of the sudden, the closer was there.
No one was prepared.
It gave them a scare.
The show was completed, the directors in smiles.
You could hear the applause to the Hawaiian Isles.
Mr. Sutton exclaimed as we marched off the fields,
“Good job band. You made them feel!”
– Sandi Ransburg – 1988
Greenwood’s dreams of a three-peat were not to be. Western high school’s enrollment had placed them very near the dividing line between class C and B. In 1988, their enrollment increased enough to nudge them into class B. The first, and only, class B win for Western was in 1988 with Greenwood a very close second. Western returned to class C competition in 1990 and have remained there to this day. Finals were at the Hoosier Dome on October 29. Finishing second seemed like a letdown and to many band members it showed. Despite shouts of encouragement from the audience, there were many tears of disappointment. A lecture from Mr. Sutton helped put the day in perspective. “There are 198 bands that start this thing,” he said. “That’s something to be proud of. You’re still winners. Be happy with what you did.”
1988 – ISSMA Marching Finals
Drum Major Lora Adams carried the second place trophy as the band headed back to their buses. “It’s still heavy. Even if it’s not first,” she said. “I said earlier that if anyone beat us, then they must have done a wonderful job. It was the best show of the year for us. They just did a better one. We’ll just be a little hungrier next year.”
Jon Sutton said,”No matter where we finish, we’re pleased with the kids.”
In April 1989, the Wind Ensemble won a first place trophy at the Smoky Mountain Music Festival in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The group traveled on a double-decker tour bus. For the first time in school history, they were also selected to compete in the ISSMA State competition at Southport High School. Greenwood finished in 13th place. Mr. Sutton called their finish “very respectable.” Sutton continued,”We were extremely happy to be a part of the state finals.”
1989 – Irish Guard
1989 – Irish Guard
Newly elected band parent officers for 1989 are Debbie Carmichael, president; Becky Minnix, vice president; Pam Hiatt, secretary; Lafayette May, treasurer and Gary Campbell, assistant treasurer.
Greenwood’s band camp this year was at St. Mary of the Woods College in Terre Haute. Band membership was 150 in 1989. “We got off to a rocky start last year and we wanted to be very positive at camp this year.” said Director Sutton. “We worked the band hard at camp, but I feel it was an enjoyable experience for them.”
New assistant director Matt James was responsible for the 1989 show’s visual design.
1989 – Football game – Irish Guard members – Clockwise – Kathy Snyder, Linda Whitaker, Leslie Jakel, Traci Mulrooney, Vivian Sneed and Tina Hagerty
1989 – Homecoming – Chris Harris, Erica Minnix and Brenda May
1989 – Jason Brown
1989 – Greenwood Band Director Jon Sutton
The mantra for this band season was “We’ll Shine in ’89!” Greenwood again began their competition season at both Lawrence Central and Carmel on September 16. Rain forced both invitationals indoors for stand-still shows. Greenwood won grand champion at Lawrence and placed 3rd in Carmel with captions for best auxiliary and drum major. The following weekend, September 23, was another familiar double-header with Greenwood competing at Center Grove’s Cavalcade of Champions early in the day and playing in exhibition at Greenwood’s invitational that evening. Greenwood opted to compete in Class A at Center Grove and finished in 3rd place. District competition was September 30 at Southport where Greenwood received a Division I rating and captions for best music, marching and general effect.
1989 – Marching contest – Michelle Layton
On October 7, the Marching Woodmen hit the road to perform at King’s Island for the Tri-State Invitational (also known as the College Football Hall of Fame). Greenwood was named Grand Champion!
1989 – October 7 – Tri-State competition at King’s Island in Cincinnati, Ohio – Guard Captains and Drum Majors Lora Adams, Mike Cleary and Angie Bunning.
Betty Ferrell wrote to the Daily Journal about the Marching Woodmen. “The city of Greenwood has a group of dedicated, well disciplined, talented young people of whom we should be extremely proud – the Greenwood Community High School Marching Woodmen.
“Recently, I had the privilege of attending a performance of the Marching Woodmen in Ohio. Not only did they come away with top honors, they exhibited remarkable poise in doing so.
“I would like to thank the Marching Woodmen for giving our city so much pride. The many hours of practice, the giving of time and energy, maintaining the high standards demanded, the dedication and the self-discipline are all deeply appreciated.
“You have represented this city well in all your performances.
“I would also like to thank the involved parents, the leaders and all those who work behind the scenes to help make the Marching Woodmen the very best they can possibly be. It is indeed an honor to have the Greenwood Marching Woodmen representing our city.”
1989 – Jenny DeArmond
Next up was the regional competition at Bedford North Lawrence on October 14. Regionals were held at four contest sites: Elkhart, Columbus, Marion and Bedford. The top five in each class advanced to State Finals. Center Grove also won a place in finals competing in Class A. They had the unenviable task of going up against Class A powerhouse Ben Davis. Under the leadership of Gary Wishmeyer (husband of Greenwood guard director Pam Wishmeyer), Ben Davis had won Class A the last five years. No other band had ever won five in a row, and now six in a row seemed likely.
The Saturday before finals saw both Greenwood and Center Grove competing at the North Montgomery Invitational in Crawfordsville. Greenwood placed 1st in Class B with captions for best marching, auxiliary and general effect. Center Grove placed first in Class A with captions for best marching, general effect, music, percussion and drum major. Greenwood was next off to the Hoosier Dome. Greenwood would perform at 3:50. Center Grove would compete four hours later in class A.
There was the traditional “Before State” party Thursday in Craig Park.
Governor Evan Bayh wrote an open letter to ISSMA participants and spectators and stated, “This event is more than a competition: it is a colorful and lovely display of Indiana’s youth and their love of hometown and school.”
30,000 spectators packed into the Hoosier Dome for ISSMA finals on October 28. Greenwood led class B competition (as they would in 1996, 2013 and 2019) with their show featuring “Fanfare and Intermezzo” by Robert Sheldon, “Entr’ Acte” by Jay Sawson and “Seagate Overture” by James Swearingen. They set the bar for competition and won the day with their third championship in four years!
1989 – ISSMA Marching Finals
On the field, sophomore flutist Stephanie Davidson couldn’t understand the second place announcement. “I looked up at my mom and my friend’s mom and they were jumping up and down and hugging and I knew we had won.” Senior Becki Moan had a feeling the Woodmen would win. She and her friends wore good luck charms given to them by their boyfriends as well as stickers, buttons, pins and trinkets all carefully concealed under their uniform lapels. “I just knew we were going to win,” shouted Moan as she and her friends jumped up and down. Sophomore Paige Austrew, “When they announced second place, I cried so hard I couldn’t stop.” Jon Sutton summed up the win, “It’s nice to be back on top. We were really pleased with the way the kids performed. They were real excited and it showed on the field. It was a strong performance.” Assistant Director Matt James agreed saying this was “…their performance of the year.”
Per tradition, the band was escorted by police and fire department to the school where a party in the cafeteria greeted them. Also, win or lose, fireworks were organized by the Greenwood Fire Department. “The community and the parents have been so supportive.” said Director Sutton, “There were probably 400 to 500 people waiting for us when we pulled in.” The celebration was well under way when the telephone rang quietly in the background. It was answered and news started to quickly spread through the group before an official announcement was made. Center Grove had been successful in stopping Ben Davis’ winning streak and had won their first state championship!
1989 – ISSMA Marching Finals – Center Grove guard members react to the announcement of their 1st place finish.
Sophomore Jennifer Gaebhart said, “We heard Center Grove won and everyone in the cafeteria began to scream.” The decision was quickly made to move Greenwood’s celebration to Center Grove High School to be there to welcome their fellow Johnson county champions home. Jennifer traveled with her friends to Center Grove. The band finally arrived home a little after midnight with police escort and screaming supporters from both Center Grove and Greenwood. After the marching season, Center Grove Color Guard Director Robin Shaw proclaimed Johnson County “band capital of the universe.” As of 2022, this remains the only year where both Greenwood and Center Grove had first place wins. The following April would unite Center Grove Director Tom Dirks and Greenwood Director Jon Sutton as both would receive special recognition awards from the Greenwod Chamber of Commerce. They were honored for the “winning reputation their bands have brought to the community as well as for their long tenure of excellence.”
1990 – GHS Jazz Band
1990 – GHS Symphonic Band
1990 – GHS Wind Ensemble
The Indiana General Assembly passed a House Resolution honoring the Marching Woodmen for winning state. The ceremony took place at the House on January 19, 1990. In attendance were Greenwood Public Schools Superintendent Don Strobel, GHS Principal Harold Crawford, band director Jon Sutton, and assistant band directors Matt James, Dan Rice and Dave Herrick. Students also attended the ceremony and were given a tour of the state house. “I feel the trip had a good purpose,” said senior Cassey Evans. “It was an honor to the band and the school as well. I appreciated the time they took from their busy schedules.”
1990 – Irish Guard at IHSCGA contest
1990 – Guard Director Pam Wishmeyer
Greenwood and Center Grove capped off their successful year by both marching in the 500 Festival Parade. Jon Sutton said, “This is a little different for us because we normally don’t do parades. But this is a big parade and the students are looking forward to doing it.” Many of the students were excited for another reason. Drum Major Mike Cleary explained, “They’re excited about marching on television with 6 million people watching us.” Drum Major Lora Adams added, “A lot of people are going to tape it and see if they can find themselves on television.” Some students were concerned about the 3 mile route. Cleary tells fellow band members, “It’s not as bad as it sounds.” Lora Adams concluded, “We’ll start out looking great. Still looking as good at the end as we did at the beginning is going to be the challenge.”
The 1990 marching season began with a leaner band of 130. There was a large freshman class and only 25 seniors. “We have to start with the basic marching fundamentals,” said Jon Sutton. “And reinforce them all summer long. We use upperclassmen to teach them and show them the ins and outs.” Angie Bruning remarked on the beginning of her final year in band. “It’s going pretty good. At band camp we learned a lot more than we did in the past.” As a senior, this is Bunning’s last chance to compete. “I will come back and watch,” she said. “But it will be sad not to be with them.”
As the invitationals began, Greenwood placed first in all including a sweep of the caption awards at the Center Grove Cavalcade of Champions. Mid-September Jon Sutton felt the momentum building. “I don’t make predictions but I feel real good about this team. This band has a real good work ethic.” Sutton says Greenwood’s success is attributable to a positive attitude as much as it is hard work. “Our success is founded in a good educational philosophy. It’s not just marching and playing — it’s dedication, responsibility and a good effort. All of the instructors have common goals.” he continued, “This year’s squad is a worthy successor to Woodmen squads of years past.” As to predicting the outcome of Finals, Sutton says, “If the team uses its maximum effort, I will be happy. I try to get the students to perform the best that they possibly can.”
1990 – Marching contest
Senior saxophone Brenda May noted some bands had a different motivation during competitions. “There are a lot of schools where their goal through the entire marching season is to beat Greenwood!” Brenda and several other seniors were asked about traditions during the marching season. Guard member Bianca Aichele noted a tradition that has altered a bit over the years, “Ever since I was a freshman, we put a penny in our shoe. The penny must be newly minted in the year of the contest.” Even though Aichele has moved from the Guard to clarinet, she has marched with her shiny 1990 penny at every contest. That tradition evolved into carrying a penny in a wrapper, pinned to the uniform at State Finals.
The saxophone section is depending on the continued good luck of a 2-inch tall green and gold plastic creature known as the Keds Monster. The mascot was recruited for the band by senior Erica Minnix. During practice, she attached him to the horn of her alto sax. During contests, he rides in the pocket of saxophone soloist, senior John Wilson.
Brenda and the other senior band members will enforce another long-standing tradition. During the bus ride to the Hoosier Dome, underclassmen must sit in full uniform and face straight ahead in total silence. Seniors build the excitement for the performance by delivering an emotional speech from the back of the bus.
Brenda May remained a strong supporter of the Marching Woodman after graduation. It’s a tradition she instilled in her children as well. Brenda’s daughter Tayler led the Marching Woodmen to another state championship as a drum major during the 2014 marching season. Brenda shared some thoughts on being a multi-generational band family. “Tayler liked that we both got to experience working with some of the same great people and that we both got to have so many of the same amazing experiences. We definitely have had a lot of great conversations about our time in band. We both know first hand what it feels like to be state champions multiple times!” Brenda continued, “One thing that Tayler really liked about her freshman year (2012) was the bright yellow uniforms. They were a little bit similar color-wise to the uniform that I wore when I was a Marching Woodmen and she thought that was cool.
Brenda May in 1987 and daughter Tayler in 2012. Photo courtesy of Brenda May.
Some of the favorite memories that we both share as band members are the tradition of how everyone behaved on the buses when arriving to competition sites, dismissal from band and serenade.”
Brenda and Tayler May in 2014. Photo courtesy of Brenda May.
The Marching Woodmen played their way through District competition at Southport on September 29. Then they returned to Murray State University in Kentucky for the Festival of Champions on October 6. Greenwood won the Reserve Grand Champion (2nd place) award as well as the award for best color guard. The Woodmen next traveled to Regionals at Evansville Central on October 13. Prior to the competition, Assistant Director Matt James said,”We’re really excited! If the kids do as well as they did last weekend in Kentucky, we’ll be in good shape.” However, after the competition Jon Sutton and band members thought their performance level was down.”We lacked enthusiasm,” said Sutton. “They did a nice job, but lacked spark.” Greenwood advanced to State Finals and were determined to improve their show before performing in the Dome. Before finals, Greenwood had a chance to regain their spark at the Tippecanoe Valley Invitational in Mentone, Indiana.
In 1990 there were 193 bands, with over 17,000 members, competing during marching season. The week of Finals, the band gathered for Serenade at 4:30am outside Mr. Sutton’s house. They then traveled to the Whiteland home of assistant director Matt James for a second performance.
20,000 spectators gathered for finals on October 27 with Class B competition starting at 3:50. Greenwood took the field at 4:29 and the Daily Journal described their performance. “The haunting opening number, ‘Dedicata,’ began slowly, changing to a happy, uptempo melody. As the Woodmen marched in perfect precision and the color guard darted in and out, the music toned down. Then built up to an aggressive finish. Next, Greenwood slid into a jazz groove and played ‘Johnny One Note,’ an old Judy Garland number. And for the majestic, rousing finale, ‘In All Its Glory,’ Greenwood became a fluid throng of musicians and flags.”
1990 – ISSMA Marching Finals
1990 – ISSMA Marching Finals
For the fourth time in five years, Greenwood was a state champion! Senior Drum Major Angie Bunning said, “When the first place announcement was made, I just started crying. The three of us gave each other a big hug.”
1990 – ISSMA Marching Finals – Angie Bunning, Steve Blair and Michelle Johnston
Jon Sutton described waiting for the announcement at the end. “It’s a tremendous feeling of anticipation.” After the second place winner was announced and Greenwood was still standing, “Down the field you could hear this big sigh. It was a real relief. We’re real pleased. The kids are the best gauge. If they think it’s good, it’s pretty good.”
Winning state also gets the school a $1,000.00 check for a music scholarship for a student chosen by the school. The scholarship is donated by the Indiana Dairy Farmers Association.
Under Jon Sutton, the strength of the music program and the reputation of the Greenwood Marching Woodmen would soar to new heights. Four championships in his first six years was an amazing achievement, with more to come.
Sophomore Guard member Jennifer Hill summed up the 1990 season. Jennifer found it difficult to adapt to Irish Guard at first. She missed the free time with her friends. She found band camp to be quite a trying experience. “I had blisters on blisters on both feet before I learned to wear two pairs of socks at a time.” After band camp came daily practices with the marching band. Also Guard practice every Thursday from 6 to 9. That was followed by performances at football games and competitions. “It got to the point where we were marching everywhere rather than walking,” she said. “Then we won State! All that practicing in the hot sun, rain and cold wind was worth it. Before I knew it, marching season was over and the Irish Guard said goodbye to the band. I can’t wait to do it again next year.”
1991 – Greenwood Emerald Guard
1991 – Greenwood Irish Guard
1991 – Jazz Band concert at The Columns in downtown Greenwood.
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Thank you SO much for your work on this website. This history is invaluable to those of us who lived it! “Go for it, Greenwood!!!!!!”