Remembering Bands of America's Gatekeeper Tommy Smith
On December 1, 2016, long-time BOA volunteer Tommy Smith passed away unexpectedly. The Music For All community was absolutely devastated to lose such a charismatic man.
In 2017, a new Smith will take over the duties that Tommy did so well...his own son, Taylor.
In a post on Facebook, Taylor Smith announced that he will be volunteering his time as the Front Sideline Coordinator for the Austin, South Texas, Houston, San Antonio Regionals and Grand Nationals. The same role that his father filled for many years.
Taylor is on the brass staff at Carolina Crown.
While the BOA community will miss Tommy dearly, it will be comforting to know that Taylor will be there to continue the Smith legacy on the sidelines. 
FIRST ENCOUNTER WITH TOMMY
Bright and early on Saturday morning in McAllen at the Bands of America Regional, the first band was getting ready to take the field. As they approached the gate a gentleman by the name of Tommy Smith approached. Standing about 6-foot-3 with a high and tight buzz cut, Tommy towers over just about every band member who approaches the gate. Then this infectious smile begins to shine and the intimidating figure issues a sense of calm to the kids. For Tommy, when that happens, he feels like his job is done.
Tommy Smith is a volunteer for Bands of America and demonstrates all of the core values that defines what the marching arts is all about. He is the Front Sideline Coordinator or in short terms, the gatekeeper.
His job is to direct the front ensembles, performers, band parents, and directors as they enter the field along the front sideline. But Tommy's primary goal for every band is to make sure they understand why they are getting ready to perform. Tommy will huddle each group, including the directors and parents, and remind them that they are there to enjoy the moment and have fun.
We caught up with Tommy after a long day in the sun with temperatures over 102 degrees and asked him why he volunteers his time and how he got started with BOA.
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