Music teacher and band director Ed Rovi was struck by an idea last winter, “like 3 o’clock in the morning,” to host a Battle of the Bands made up mostly of teachers. Last school year was already underway, so the plan didn’t go into action until this fall.

Now, Rovi has organized several bands, featuring student and staff performers.

On Monday, November 24, five bands will take the stage at Swampscott High School starting at 7 p.m. Each group will perform about three songs, Rovi said.

“I want to make it meaningful,” Rovi said. “I want like an hour and a half of music for the people to come and listen to. They’re going to get their money’s worth.”

The high school marching band will open the night with its rock-themed halftime performance, followed by the middle school band. A middle school and high school combo band will play next, leading into an intermission featuring a bake sale in the lobby.

After intermission, a faculty band will take the stage, and student group Turtle on a String will close out the night.

“Then we’ll announce a winner,” Rovi said. “It’s fun.”

The event poster was created by students in the art club, Rovi said. 

“We’re just trying to incorporate all kids in the work,” Rovi said. 

Rovi said he will make an appearance throughout the night, as will other teachers like AP English high school teacher Peter Franklin, special education teacher Jeremy Wein, seventh grade English language arts teacher Lucia Papile, guidance counselor Dylan Randall, and High School Principal Emily Zotto. 

“I’m looking forward to a night for the community to get together,” Rovi said. “It goes beyond the band trip itself.”

Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for seniors and children. Raffle tickets will also be available. Proceeds support the school music trip to Universal in March.

Rovi said he hopes the event will raise $6,000.

“It’s going to benefit all of the kids,” Rovi said. “Hopefully it brings in some money.”