The Greenwood High School music program began 80 years ago. It has endured tragedies, celebrated triumphs and continues to thrive. As of this writing, the Greenwood Marching Woodmen have 13 ISSMA State Finals wins and the most top-five finishes of any school in the state (37). How did a small class B school develop such a consistently excellent music program? 
What is the story? These are some of the questions this history series will explore. We will journey back in time to the very beginning. We will learn about the people who made it happen. We will chronicle the events and we will display photos from decades past (most photos can be enlarged by clicking them). In addition to the development of the band program, we will explore the growth and development of the town of Greenwood from rural farming community to a bustling modern city.
Undoubtedly, a major factor in Greenwood’s success is the combination of band directors, students and parents. Directors provide the lead and the passion for the program. Director John Morse explains, “My passion for teaching music stems from all that music has given me during my life. Music has given me my place in this world. It has taught me endless lessons on music, art, passion, dedication, professionalism, leadership, perseverance, commitment and love just to name a few. It is from these blessings I have received that gave me the desire to guide others in the journey that music takes us on.”
The best directors want to share their love of music with others and see them develop and grow as musicians. That is a common factor all of Greenwood’s 17 head band directors have shared. Retired Greenwood director Jon Sutton, “The opportunity to share my passion for music with young people brings a joy to me that far exceeds any other compensation I could receive. To watch students achieve each small task placed before them and watch their confidence grow because of that achievement brings joy to me every day. As the students improve their skill and confidence level and eventually develop the ability to convey emotion through their music, they achieve an understanding and maturity that many students outside the arts never experience.”
It has been stated that the lessons a student takes away from band will serve them well in every aspect of their life. “Through the unique activity of “Band” we, as 
teachers, are able to connect with students in ways that allow us to teach more than music,” said Jon Sutton. “I always get great satisfaction from helping students turn into outstanding young men and women. Through the band activity we teach work ethic, team work, caring for other people, dealing with adversity, ethics in general, and leadership skills. 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.” Director Morse agrees, saying, “I love watching students grow up with music as a part of their lives. I have the joy of watching students grow through performance in music and dance and learn many important life skills along the way. I also love getting to teach a large age range of students. I am very lucky to have students from beginning band in middle school through their high school graduation. Watching them develop into exemplary performers, scholars and leaders is truly a gift.”
The history of the Marching Woodmen is about leadership, discipline, teamwork, friendship, family, and the music that unites all of them. This series will chronicle that history with archival materials, photos, news clippings and personal recollections. But, it will also evolve through the feedback from readers who are encouraged to add their memories through 
the comments section, act as fact-checkers and even submit stories and photos to make the history more complete. This is intended to be an interactive history. Let’s explore!
Add your voice to the story. Add a comment below. All comments are moderated before posting.
All contents are © Greenwood Community High School. All rights reserved. Attribution of photographs has been given when known.
This is a tremenous work load and “we” are thankful that someone has taken the time and energy it takes to make this dream a reality. Thank you
Jimmy Haskell ’83
Greatly appreciate your time and dedication.
Thank you for this!! I appreciate your efforts to record the history of the Greenwood program. We do look back on the wonderful life lessons from marching band and color guard and you capturing the legacy here helps us all celebrate together even though we are from different decades and have gone down different paths over time. Excellent idea!