The Patrick John Hughes Parent Booster Award recognizes the extraordinary commitment, dedication, support, and sacrifice of music parents and boosters across the nation by shining a spotlight on a recipient who exemplifies these qualities.
The award is named in honor of Patrick John Hughes, the father of Patrick Henry Hughes. Patrick Henry is a remarkable young man who, despite physical challenges that would seem overwhelming to many, has excelled as a musician and student, singing and playing piano and trumpet with the Louisville Marching and Pep Bands, with the help of his father, who tirelessly maneuvers his son’s wheelchair through the formations with the other 220+ members of the Cardinal Marching Band.
During Music for All’s Live Pledge Event on November 14, 2020, the 2020 Patrick John Hughes Parent Booster award was awarded to Bill Montgomery of Bellbrook High School, OH.
Mr. Montgomery has been a dedicated volunteer with Bellbrook High School in Ohio since 2005 when his daughter joined the band as a flute player. Over the last fifteen years, he has served as trustee, chairman, and pit dad. No matter his role, Bill has always been there for every single musician at Bellbrook. His fellow band boosters say Bill genuinely cares about the kids in the band – he learns their names and what they play, and he always has a high five and words of encouragement for them.
Bill is Bellbrook’s resident master pizza maker, an essential aspect of Bellbrook band’s concession stand fundraising efforts. Beyond this culinary duty, Bill volunteers his time to build props, attend parades and competitions, and train new pit dads. Bill is known for taking new volunteers under his wing to show them the ropes and make them feel welcome. His humble, passionate work ethic sets the tone for other parents and volunteers.
“Year after year, the Bellbrook Band has been the fortunate beneficiary of Bill’s extraordinary character and true selflessness. I am lucky indeed to know him, and even luckier that he chooses to spend his valuable time working for this organization,” says Barbara Siler, director of bands at Bellbrook High School.
Congratulations Mr. Montgomery!
