Past Directors
The success of the MMS BANDS is a reflection of great leadership. Edward R. Martin Middle School (formerly Edward R. Martin Junior High) has had several distinguished directors who are named here:
Mr. John J. McNamara III ~ Founding Director of Martin Bands
Central/Martin Junior High ~ 1974 - 1987; 1999 - 2000
The Martin band room was dedicated as the McNamara Band Room on December 7,
2005 in honor of Mr. Mac's 31 years service to East Providence Schools.
Mr. Richard M. Vars
Martin Junior High ~ 1987 - 1996
Mr. Scott S. Abrahamson
Martin Middle School ~ 2000 - 2008
Wall of Excellence
Each year, special awards are presented to students who have truly distinguished themselves. They include the Director's Award and the Woody Herman Jazz Award. Recipients of these honors receive their own plaques in addition to having their names added to our memorial plaques. The latter are located on our Wall of Fame in the band room. Below are the names of those students selected since Mr. Abrahamson assumed the directorship in the fall of 2000. Also listed are the numerous awards the band has earned in recent years.
Band/Jazz Festival Awards
SUPERIOR
RIMEA Band Festival
2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
SUPERIOR
RIMEA Jazz Festival
2004, 2005, 2006
EXCELLENT
RIMEA Jazz Festival
2007
GOLD MEDAL
Wildcat Concert Band
P.A.C. Festival
2006, 2007, 2008
GOLD MEDAL
MMS Jazz Ensemble
P.A.C. Festival
2007, 2008
SILVER MEDAL
MMS Jazz Ensemble
P.A.C. Festival
2006
PLATINUM MEDAL
Great East Festival
2003, 2004
GOLD MEDAL
Great East Festival
2002, 2005
EXCELLENT
RIMEA Band Festival
2004
SERVICE AWARD
Rhode Island Alliance for Retired Americans
2004
