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BAMBERG -- It's not unusual to see news about athletes being signed by colleges and universities. But how about high school band members?

One such signing took place recently, with five Bamberg-Ehrhardt Red Raider Regiment seniors taking the next step toward a music career. Three have earned scholarships to attend South Carolina State University, and two seniors will attend North Carolina A&T and Charleston Southern University.

While at B-E, they have been under the tutelage of Bamberg District One's Michael Miller.

During a special May 27 signing ceremony, Bamberg-Ehrhardt High School recognized Brittany Barnwell, Caleb Howie and Chris Smart on their acceptance into the S.C. State University Marching Band 101.

All three will receive scholarships of either $4,000 or $5,000 for the 2008-2009 school year. While at S.C. State, they will participate in marching band as well as various other ensembles.

S.C. State University Director of Bands Eddie Ellis was on hand to congratulate the scholarship recipients.

"When Mr. Miller invited me here, I was thrilled to say 'yes,'" Ellis said. "Miller is a pioneer in holding this signing for band students."

Parents, fellow Red Raider band members and school faculty congratulated the seniors on their hard work and dedication to pursuing a music career in college. Barnwell, who plays the clarinet and tuba, will receive $4,000 a year to attend S.C. State. She served as band captain at B-E during the 2007-2008 season and is interested in a career as a band director. She is the daughter of Sue Barnwell and James Barnwell.

Howie will receive a $5,000-a-year scholarship to the university. Howie, the son of Kelly McCray, was section leader with the Red Raider Regiment and plays trombone and baritone. He also likes to sing and is interested in performing in a choir or band someday. He plans to either major in music, computer science or math.

Smart has also signed with S.C. State, accepting a $4,000-a-year scholarship. Smart was second chair clarinet in the Red Raider Regiment. Smart praised Miller for being a real motivator and instilling the fundamentals in his band students. Smart is the son of Fredrick and Lear Smart.

"We would also like to use this time to honor Demetrus Parker, who will be attending NC A&T, and Yvonne Thomas, who is going to Charleston Southern University," Miller said. Parker plays percussion, and Thomas plays baritone.

Miller, an alumnus of S.C. State, said most of the seniors recognized have been in band since the sixth grade. They deserve to be recognized and rewarded for their hard work and decision to continue their music careers in college, Miller said. He thanked the parents of the students for supporting and helping their sons and daughters become accomplish musicians.

T&D Correspondent Minnie Miller can be reached by writing to her at 138 Nature's Trail, Bamberg, SC 29003. Discuss this and other stories online at TheTandD.com.

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