Swoffords to Conduct Their Grand Finale

The final St. Clair R-XIII School District band concert under the direction of longtime instrumental music directors and teachers Paul and Elaine Swofford is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 12, in the SCHS gymnasium.

More than 3,200 R-XIII band program alumni have been invited back to their alma mater as special guests for the concert. St. Clair Band Boosters President Mike Drewel said at least 400 to 500 have confirmed they will attend, but he said it’s possible many more than that will show up.

The Swoffords have taught and directed instrumental music in the St. Clair school district for 30 years. Hired together shortly after they were married in 1981, they announced earlier this year that they were retiring at the end of the current academic year.

The concert originally was scheduled for Thursday, May 3, but because of the anticipated number of alumni from outside the area who want to attend, the event was moved to a weekend night.

Drewel said the concert will feature about a dozen selections. As part of the festivities, the traditional “battle of the bands” will take place. During the concert, the SCHS band will be divided into two groups and separately directed for bragging rights.

In addition, the school district officially will recognize the Swoffords, a special retirement present will be awarded and the seniors will present their annual gift.

Drewel said a few other “surprises” are on tap during the course of the evening.

“We can’t do 30 years of justice and dedication to excellence in one night,” he said. “But, this will be a special night and a special tribute to the Swoffords.”

The public is invited to attend.

For more information, contact SCHS at 636-629-3500.