Mr. Garrett was my band teacher from 7^th grade through 12^th grade. He was one of my favorite teachers I’ve ever had, in part because of the subject he taught but in part because he was just an awesome dude. I always enjoyed the way he taught band, the pieces he selected for us, and his general attitude towards dealing with a bunch of weirdo band kids, whether they be little tiny 12- and 13-year-old 7^th graders or wild and (supposedly) wiser 18-year-old seniors.

I remember we used to have “test days” back in junior high that just consisted of him wheeling out the big TV and letting us watch The Emperor’s New Groove or Star Wars or Lord of the Rings that day during band period. In high school, we traveled to Disneyland to do a mock professional recording of some songs (and, of course, spend like 24+ hours riding rides and being general hooligans in Disneyland itself) and to Canada to play at some sort of competition thingy. Even the fundraisers for these events were fun.

Anyway, after teaching for 37 years, he is finally retiring. Last year was the final Ice Cream Social performance he would be involved in, so my mom and I stopped in to say congratulations.

And I’ll say it again here: congrats, Mr. Garrett! Thank you for being an amazing band teacher and for the impact you’ve had on countless young lives. Keeping music in schools is beyond important, and your role in this has been undeniable.

Have a great retirement!