By Neev Dani

Contributing writer

When Xavier Fain took on the role of director of the Smithfield High School band last year, he brought what he described as  a “fresh perspective and a commitment to restoring the band’s legacy.”

In just one year, his leadership and vision transformed the band into an award-winning ensemble, collecting numerous accolades in the AA division and setting a new standard of excellence. The AA division consists of Granby High School, I.C. Norcom High School, Denbigh High School, Henrico High School, Louisa High School, Warwick High School, and Peterburg High School. Stepping into a role that had seen three different directors in as many years, Fain recognized the need for stability and continuity. 

Joel Joyner, who led the band from 2014 through 2022, “has been a mentor to me this past year with the jazz band,” Fain said 

After Joyner, Stephen Syrell took over from 2022-23, then returned to his former role as band director of Westside Elementary. 

Fain’s approach was rooted in understanding the school’s history, particularly the band’s storied past from the 1980s and 90s. Drawing on this legacy, he set out to instill discipline, clear expectations, and a renewed sense of pride among the band members. 

“I knew some history of the school, especially from the 80s and 90s, and I wanted to bring back continuity,” Fain said. His immediate priorities were clear: implement new strategies for the marching band, focus on discipline, and ensure every student knew their role and expectations.

Under Fain’s guidance, the Smithfield High School Band competed in four different competitions last year, bringing home an impressive 20 awards in the AA division. These included first place majorettes overall at an Oct. 14, 2023, competition at the Norview Pilot Classic in Norfolk, first place in music and flags at the Oct. 30, 2023, Kings Fourth Kennel Classic Band Competition at Kings Fork High School in Suffolk, first place majorettes overall at the Sept. 17, 2023, Greensville County Classic, and first place in music and majorettes at the Nov. 4, 2023, Lakeland Eye of The Storm Classic. Their accomplishments didn’t stop there; the jazz bands also received an All Superior Rating Jazz Band at the District 8 Band Assessment Level, the highest honor possible and also received first place band at the Smithfield Christmas Parade. 

This success was no accident. Fain said he emphasized the importance of creating a safe and trusting environment for his students, making the band room a place where everyone felt at home. He also fostered camaraderie through various fundraising activities and ensured that all sections of the band interacted and collaborated with one another.

One of the key factors in the band’s success was Fain’s innovative approach. He introduced a unified marching style, arranged and wrote everything for the marching band, and tailored his strategies specifically to fit Smithfield’s needs. 

“Everything was tailor-made for Smithfield,” Fain said, highlighting his hands-on involvement in every aspect of the band’s performance.

Balancing the band’s traditions with his own vision was another challenge Fain navigated skillfully. He took the time to listen to both parents and students, understanding their experiences and the changes they wanted to see. This feedback informed his decisions, allowing him to integrate his new strategies while respecting the band’s rich traditions.

“The band’s success would not have been possible without the support of the band boosters, who played a crucial role in the band’s achievements,” Fain said. “From organizing events and fundraisers to providing essential supplies and support, the boosters helped make my vision a reality.” Financial management was a significant aspect of this, with all funds raised being reinvested into the band, ensuring the band had the resources needed to thrive.

Looking ahead, Fain has ambitious plans for the Smithfield High School Band. He is focused on expanding mentorship programs, fostering a “big brother, big sister” culture that extends to local elementary schools. This year, he also aims to increase the band’s visibility through performances at major events like NASCAR, NFL, or NBA games. With the band’s rapid growth — expected to exceed the current band room’s capacity — Fain is also looking at long-term needs, including renovations to the band room and the acquisition of new instruments. As the Smithfield High School Band prepares for the 2024-25 school year, Fain’s leadership and vision promise to continue driving the band to new heights. His dedication to his students, innovative strategies, and deep respect for the band’s traditions have set the stage for another year of success and growth.