Farmingdale School District Partners with Alumnus Brian Calhoun and Calhoun Drum Academy for “Marching for All” Performance and Documentary
The Farmingdale School District is proud to announce an inspiring collaboration with district alumnus Brian Calhoun and his nationally recognized Calhoun Drum Academy, featuring the All Abilities Drumline, an ensemble that unites individuals of all abilities through the power of music. This partnership will be featured in an upcoming professional documentary, scheduled for completion in 2026, produced by award-winning filmmakers based in New York City.
The documentary, which seeks to redefine ability and promote inclusion, will highlight a series of meaningful moments at Farmingdale, culminating in a community celebration and a joint performance with the Farmingdale High School Marching Band. The highlight of the collaboration will be a unified rendition of Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline.”
Event Details:
Marching for All Unified Performance
- Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 6:00 PM
- Farmingdale High School Turf Field
- A joint performance by the Calhoun Drum Academy All Abilities Drumline and the Farmingdale High School Marching Band serves as the emotional centerpiece of the documentary.
Special Encore Performance
- Saturday, October 18, 2025
- Halftime of the Farmingdale vs. Massapequa football game
- A celebration of inclusion, community pride, and musical excellence.
Notes of Appreciation:
Greg Warnokowski, Farmingdale Director of Fine and Performing Arts, shared: "As this event is captured for a documentary, the world will get to see what we already know—that when people of all abilities share the stage, the result is not just a performance, it's an inspiration."
Paul Defendini, Farmingdale Superintendent, shared: "We are thrilled to collaborate with Brian on this project. It perfectly reflects our district's values — celebrating diversity, fostering inclusion, and giving all students a chance to shine. That these moments will be documented and shared nationally makes it even more meaningful."
Brian Calhoun, Director of the Calhoun Drum Academy, shared: "This partnership will be a shining example of how General Education and Special Education can come together through Music Education. As a former Daler and proud Farmingdale alumnus, I believe Farmingdale is the perfect district for this unique collaboration. I hope our joint work will inspire students, educators, and communities everywhere that music is for everyone."