Special to El Rrun-Rrun
Described as one of the best bands south of San Antonio, the 1950 Brownsville High School band musicians marched in step to the top of the mountain, or in their case, the shores of Lake Michigan way up north.
Director James Murphy and Assistant Wayne Coleman put Brownsville on the map with the band’s performance in Chicago. Their sparking performance drew praise from the music experts in the “Windy City.”
The Midwest Clinic International Band, Orchestra and Music Conference each year displayed top ensembles throughout the music conference to showcase the newest ideas and talent. From students to professionals, performers have a chance to exhibit their talents to a supportive and enthusiastic audience with an interest in furthering music education. Each band and orchestra conference is unique and offers attendees the most up-to-date music styles and education techniques.
The following wire from the National Chairman of the Clinic in Chicago, was sent to the Brownsville Herald:
"With James Murphy conducting thrilled the more than 2000 band masters of high school and college bands at the “Grand Finale” session at the Sherman Hotel.
These 100 Texans who crossed the United States to entertain and inspire the directors from almost every state in union completely captivated the hearts of their audience. Hats off to Brownsville
They stole the show at the National Mid-West Band Clinic."
The BHS yearbook editors wrote in their 1951 issue:
"The Brownsville Golden Eagle Band has made a name for Brownsville. Among many things that this band has done to their credit is the outstanding performance in Chicago and the untiring efforts that won them honors in Harlingen. This organization has done much for our school and we are grateful."
Murphy and the BHS band would travel to the Second City again in 1952. It wouldn't be until 1962 and then again in 1968 that a BHS band would perform at the Midwest Clinic, but his time under band director Robert Vezzetti.
But it was way back in 1950 that the mold was set for Brownsville high school musicians to make their mark in the shores of Lake Michigan.