“High school is a really special time in kids’ lives… [for the ability] to harness that passion and energy that people of [high school] age tend to have,” says Mrs. Camburn, Quakertown Community Senior High School’s dedicated choral director. At Quakertown, a vibrant and dynamic music department is thriving, offering students countless opportunities to cultivate their talents. However, while well-known programs like band, choir, marching band, and the musical often take center stage, as many other equally significant programs go unnoticed —programs that are vital to our school’s music community.
Behind the spotlight, students and parents pour their time and unmatched talent into lesser-known but highly impactful groups like the bell choir, jazz band, a cappella, brass band, orchestra, districts, drumline, QMPO and the voice instruction program. These programs are the life of Quakertown’s music culture, shaping the experiences of students who may not find their place elsewhere.
The collaboration between Quakertown’s students and its passionate educators is integral for the program. Tanner Sheridan, choir president, reflects on the importance of creating spaces for all students: “Kids may not have a space where they feel welcome or connected, and we inspire those kids… We help them envision a future they might want to follow.” Whether through vocal performance, instrumental skill, or theatrical expression, these programs offer students a sense of belonging that extends beyond the classroom.
The effort required to maintain these programs is staggering. Directors like Mrs. Camburn, Mr. Parker, Mr. Kitch, Ms. Urquhart, Ms. Edinger, Ms. Migliore, and Ms. Fels work tirelessly to guide their students, spending countless hours in rehearsal, script and score review, song choice, camperoning, advertising, communication to students, mentoring in clubs, learning the music themselves, coordination with the school board and extra mundane tasks. The musical alone, for example, requires over 106 hours of rehearsal time—twice a year. Yet their dedication is never about recognition; it’s about fostering a love for the arts and providing a platform for students to explore their passions.
Parental involvement is another critical piece of the program. The Quakertown Music Promoters Organization (QMPO) unites parents in their efforts to support these programs, from fundraising to event coordination. These parents help in every way they can from the craft fair to unlocking the gym, Mrs Camburn remarks they are so help, “they are the envy of other districts”. Meanwhile, outside vocal instructors offer additional resources to the students, helping them hone their skills and develop their confidence. Tanner Sheridan, who is preparing to audition for a musical theatre B.F.A. program, credits the voice instruction program for giving him the support he needs. Mrs Vanderslice (one of our vocal instruction teachers) “mentally helps me relax… She’s so helpful,” Tanner shares, illustrating the value of this free program.
Despite these successes, many of these programs remain underappreciated. While choir and marching band may receive their share of accolades, the dedication of those involved in lesser-known groups like drumline, bell choir, and orchestra often goes unnoticed. These students and directors are putting in just as much work, if not more, to produce remarkable performances for the community.
Why Recognition Matters
Recognition for these programs is more than just a pat on the back. It reinforces the importance of the arts in schools and encourages continued participation and growth. Quakertown’s music program is already deeply appreciated by the community, as demonstrated by the packed audiences at the school’s annual concerts. However, students and staff outside the music program may not understand its vast success and importance.
The program’s legacy isn’t just in its past, though. It’s in the accomplishments happening right now. Drumline has won “Best Percussion” in the state for three consecutive years. The bell choir has experienced a resurgence, while Varsity Singers took home first place in a national competition, earning an invitation to perform at Carnegie Hall. A cappella and brass band, new additions to the program, have already begun to make their mark. Jazz band makes finals at Steelstacks most years. Students from the band, choir, and orchestra have advanced to states, and all the seniors from last year’s vocal instruction program are continuing with music in some form, with many pursuing it as a career.
The growth of these programs is evident, with the orchestra expected to triple in size over the next two years. The dedication from students, educators, and parents ensures that the future of Quakertown’s music program is bright. And as Tanner Sheridan so aptly puts it, the experience of being involved in these programs teaches students how to be “comfortable in the uncomfortable”—a lesson that will carry them through life.
