The Franklin Magnet School of the Arts Beginning Band (Syracuse City School District) consists primarily of fourth and fifth graders in their first year of instrumental music study. Even though the players are very young, the group advances quickly every year and has a busy performing schedule including several local venues and community events as well as the regional NYSSMA Major Organization Festival.
Kevin Mixon, Director, continually strives to hone his skills as a music teacher and composer, and his "quest" has resulted in several articles published in Music Educators Journal The Instrumentalist and the National Band Association Journal. Douglas Robinson assists with instrumental music instruction. He also works with students with special needs at Franklin, directs the school's Afro Cuban Drum Ensemble, and maintains an active performing schedule and guitar studio.