In February of 1979 I became the Music Director of the
Richmond Concert Band. What an honor that was, and it continues to be a
great honor for me. I have led the band in more than 345 concerts that
have been heard by thousands and thousands of people. The men and women
of the band have brought our community family-friendly entertainment,
and I have been the one who has gotten the lead the music. How great is
that!
My academic degrees include a Bachelor of Arts (Music) degree from The
College of William and Mary, a Master of Science (Music Education)
degree from Virginia State College and a Doctor of Education degree
from William and Mary. I have been a junior high and high school band
director and have served as a guest conductor and adjudicator. I am on
the staff at Sandston Baptist Church as the Minister of Worship and
Administration.
A community band serves several purposes. First, it is a place where
men and women can leave the hustle and bustle of their day-to-day
living and join with others who enjoy music-making. We work hard, but I
try to make that work enjoyable. When I see band members smiling and
chatting with each other at the end of a rehearsal or concert, I feel
that we all are ready to face our daily challenges with a little
brighter attitude. That's good.
Second, a community band is an entertainment organization. Our
audiences expect to hear good music performed well. They come to be
entertained, and they deserve to hear only the best. When, at the end
of a concert, we see smiles on peoples' faces, hear positive comments
from children, and receive handshakes and pats on the back, we know
that we've entertained. That's good, too.
These past couple of years have been difficult for so many people. Each
one of us has been affected in one way or another by lay-offs,
declining value of investments and the like. Lives are full of stress
and worry. My hope is that you will find that our concerts will relax
you a bit, lighten your load and brighten your day.
The Richmond Concert Band is a family and our audiences (you!!) are an
extension of that family. For more than thirty years I have been part
of a wonderful (and large) family. Thank you for attending our
concerts. Thank you for supporting us financially. Thank you for your
applause. Thank you for allowing us to entertain you. And thank you for
allowing me to be a part of all of this.
Richmond
Concert Band is honored to have such a distinguished and able a music
director as Dr. Mark Poland. His musical expertise enriches the band in
many ways. His conducting skills, music selection, and guidance have
helped forge our image in the musical community and in the community at
large for more than 30 years.