Future All – Stars : Exploding into Existence by Simon Morton , Assistant Territorial Music Secretary
STAR BIRTH : It has long been accepted that star death is a violent and explosive event . But in order for stars to be born or created , there is an equally explosive process that must take place . The outflow of light from these events can reach up to a light year from end to end , affecting its surroundings and bringing light to an unimaginable amount of real estate … Future All – Stars entered this world with humble aspirations but exploded into one of the most effective and formative events in the USA Eastern Territory ’ s history .
A MULTI-LEVEL EXPERIENCE : In the realm of musical education , immersive experiences often stand as pivotal moments for aspiring musicians . In the realm of the Christian faith , the idea of community is vital to a healthy spiritual walk . The concept of Future All – Stars ( FAW ) combines both of these experiences and was the brainchild of then Territorial Music Secretary and NYSB Bandmaster , Ronald Waiksnoris . It has undoubtedly left a lasting impression on all that have participated in the annual event , having just celebrated its 20th iteration in March of 2024 .
In the simplest terms , FAW is an educational weekend retreat catering specifically to young brass musicians . Led by the bandmaster of the New York Staff Band , the entire band sits among the students to not only help them hone their musical skills but to also
foster personal growth , teamwork , and a sense of community .
SETTING THE STAGE : FAW is held at the Star Lake Lodge in Northern New Jersey — a serene and conducive environment , away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life . A picturesque mountainside styled lodge nestled amidst nature serves as the backdrop , providing an ideal atmosphere for immersion and focus .
OBJECTIVES :
1 . Musical Development . The primary objective is to enhance the participants ’ brass band skills through intensive workshops , rehearsals , and sectional coaching sessions led by the professional level volunteers of the NYSB .
2 . Spiritual Growth . Incorporating elements of Christian Faith practices – Bible study and corporate devotions along with prayer partner sessions .
3 . Leadership Development . Through ensemble playing and collaborative activities , participants learn the value of teamwork , communication , and personal responsibility – something we hope will trickle down to the local level in their respective corps and communities .
4 . A Measured Final Outcome . The students are expected to produce a high standard final concert culminating the hard work that has taken place in just a few days of working together .
SUPPORT : FAW started life as a humble and low-cost event with many of the daily housekeeping responsibilities being handled by band members . As the program grew and established itself as a high impact and
meaningful date in the Eastern Territories calendar , more funding allowed for high profile guests from both the broader brass music world along with devotional guests from varying Salvation Army appointments to share their knowledge and expertise . The Green Family Foundation has long been a supporter of several musical initiatives in the USA Eastern Territory and has been steadfast in supporting Future All – Stars for the majority of its existence . Other partners such as Dillon Music in New Jersey have also come alongside and often provide supplies such as valve oil , cleaning cloths and other items that brass players find useful ! Although rewarding , FAW is grueling for the men and women of the NYSB ! With only a day and half to prepare a full program of music , the amount of rehearsal time is quite heavy with a considerable amount of playing time going late into the evenings of both days in addition to the sectional rehearsals . The final concert has moved venues several times throughout the history of FAW . The first several years , the band packed on to the platform of the Spring Valley , NY corps and in later years moved to a larger church nearby that doubled as a gym with bleacher seating and all ! For the most recent finales , the Montclair Citadel corps has been gracious to share its building , providing a great acoustic for the large ensemble .
EDUCATION AND SPIRITUAL GUIDANCE : Students have benefitted not only from the
6 NYSB BULLETIN SUMMER 2024
NYSB . ORG