It’s time to reunite the band

Alabama Public Television (APT) recently took local Baby Boomers on a nostalgic trip back to their high school days with two special presentations. The first was the new “My Favorite Things: The Rodgers & Hammerstein 80th Anniversary Concert,” followed by a repeat of “This Land Is Your Land (My Music).”

For many attendees, this trip down memory lane was thanks to the late Bob McMillan, the Enterprise High School (EHS) band director from 1958-1973. McMillan introduced the Wildcat Marching Band members to Rodgers & Hammerstein music and even entered them in the 1964 Festival of States in St. Petersburg, Florida.

Despite some technical glitches on Friday, APT managed to fix the issues by Sunday night, allowing viewers to enjoy classic tunes from R&H plays like “Oklahoma,” “Carousel,” “South Pacific,” and “The Sound of Music.” These were songs that EHS bands played throughout the McMillan era, leaving a lasting impact on those who participated.

For many former band members, the experience brought back memories of performing in the pit orchestra for productions like “Oklahoma” and “Carousel.” Key songs from these shows remain close to their hearts, serving as a reminder of their musical journey during their high school years.

As the event concluded, there was a sense of nostalgia and a shared appreciation for the music that had shaped their youth. Plans are already in motion to reunite the McMillan Band, promising more musical memories to come. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting reunion!