***This article was written by Elle Eastman, a participant in The Kewanee Voice Student Journalism Program, funded by the Harry Anderson Memorial Trust.
The Wethersfield High School Pep Band holds a special place in the hearts of its alumni. For that reason, WHS band director Jay Hagaman invited former band members to come back and play with Wethersfield’s current band members.
For those returning, being able to participate in something they once enjoyed, gives them the opportunity to, actively, contribute to the school’s enduring spirit. Their presence represents the strong and lasting sense of community shared by generations of Wethersfield students. In addition they serve as an inspiration for current students.
For these alumni, certain songs hold great sentimental value. For Brian Slutts, a 2010 Wethersfield graduate, it’s the energetic beat of Go For It, a pop rock classic that he performed during his time at WHS that brings a nostalgic experience.
“It’s always fun to come back and play the classics with the kids,” he said. He played the drums during his time in the Wethersfield band and has continued playing the drums in other bands.
Another alum who returned to the pep band at WHS is Jon Looney, who graduated in 1996. Looney expressed his excitement about coming back.
“When you’re playing music and you’re together, you’re in the groove, and there is just nothing like it,” he said.
His favorite song from his time at Wethersfield is When a Man Loves a Woman. “I really do enjoy playing my trumpet,” said Looney. “In addition, I got to play with a whole different generation of Wethersfield students including my daughter.”
Luke Pratt graduated in 2014 and freely shared his sentiments about returning to the pep band.
“I always just enjoy coming back and helping out Mr. Hagaman and the pep band was always one of my favorite things in high school.”
Pratt’s favorite song is Just Dance, which is also a song he played as a high school student.
The return of alumni to the Wethersfield High School pep band shows their unwavering bond with the school’s timeless spirit, music, and memories they experienced once as students. Their participation has a clear impact on current students and the Wethersfield community. Through their dedication, these alumni embody the true essence of Wethersfield High School.
