Ryan Harrington is exited to get in step with the cadence of the Emmaus High School marching band as the new director.

Harrington is preparing for his role of band director and instrumental teacher at EHS after three years as the assistant band director under Bruce Denmead and eight years as director of instrumental music at Moravian Academy. He is a graduate of Temple University.

Harrington is getting organized for a highly anticipated marching season with a "Beatlemania" theme. The band will learn several songs by The Beatles and tunes like "Eleanor Rigby," "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" and "Lady Madonna" will be mixed in with other classics the band will learn this year.

Band camp rehearsals are scheduled to begin Aug. 9 and the run-throughs will continue as they approach their first uniformed performance for band preview night held at the football stadium Aug. 30.

Harrington said he is excited for the public to see how hard the students work to bring all of the band sections together. The band will proudly belt out notes during each football game of this upcoming season, play in three competitions, three local parades and homecoming.

"Someone coming in new is probably going to learn 40 to 50 songs in a year with the marching band," Harrington said speaking about the dedication of the students.

Harrington, who plays in musicals at DeSales University and with local jazz groups, said he always tries to keep his musical talents sharp because it makes him a better instructor. He plays primarily woodwind instruments and said he loves the saxophone while also having an affinity for the piano.

Although Harrington's appointment is pending approval by the board, expected at the Aug. 13 meeting, band camp is gearing up as scheduled while the band prepares for an exciting new season.