Benton Bluff Junior High School’s band director, Mr. Byrd, is going to have a student teacher, Natalie Tate, begin just before winter break. This divides the band members into old versus new teacher style discussions. Some are not willing to give Natalie a chance because of bad experiences with former student teachers or due to her approach to what should be taught in band. Different does not mean bad or wrong.

Meanwhile, Mr. Byrd has assigned a group of students to come up with the music for the local theater groups’ production “What’s Your Holiday?” to showcase the diverse ways people  celebrate the season. Our band has been asked to participate.” (5)

When Mr. Byrd goes to a Band Director Conference, Carmen asks Natalie to help with the holiday music production, just hours before the first practice. “Change can be scary for some people.” (70) but the older band members finally apologize and the show turns out wonderfully.

Each chapter has a black and white sketch showing the drama that takes place between this diverse group of good band kids: Hispanic, wheel chair bound, athletic, and stylish / popular.