Band observation towers have played a crucial role in helping band directors and students across the country showcase their talent and represent their institutions. These towers offer elevated platforms for band directors and instructors, providing a clear and unobstructed view of the entire marching band formation. This vantage point allows them to assess the band’s overall performance, monitor individual musicians, and offer real-time feedback on aspects such as formations, spacing, and marching techniques.
Melhart Music Center in McAllen, Texas, is a well-known music store and center that offers a wide range of musical instruments, accessories, and services. Traditionally recognized for its extensive selection of musical instruments, including guitars, keyboards, drums, and orchestral instruments, the company identified an opportunity to expand its portfolio by adding observation towers.
Planned as its flagship tower, the Melhart Two-Level Director Stairwell Tower can be custom-built to a height of 35 feet. Featuring multiple viewing platforms, a canopied top deck, and a fully enclosed staircase, the structure is designed to provide decades of safe and dependable service.
Observation towers, like any structures exposed to the elements, can be prone to corrosion over time. The susceptibility to corrosion depends on several factors, including the materials used in construction, the local climate, and maintenance practices. The choice of materials for constructing observation towers is crucial in determining their long-term resistance to corrosion. Common materials include steel, aluminum, and galvanized steel. Galvanized steel, in particular, is treated with a protective zinc coating that helps prevent corrosion with minimal required maintenance and was the preferred material for this project.
During the crucial design phase, the fabricator and AZZ Galvanizing – Houston West had to work closely together to accommodate the large dimensions and ensure easy, safe, and quick assembly in the field. The rapid on-site installation period is a key selling point and competitive differentiator as it reduces necessary labor time and minimizes disruption to the surrounding area. In certain situations, the tower may be needed urgently for special events or temporary installations, and quick assembly enables the rapid deployment of observation towers in response to specific needs.
Ultimately, the strategic design collaboration between the fabricator and AZZ significantly enhanced both the quality and future market potential of this distinctive and substantial structure. The additional time and discussions invested have led to increased sales and a significantly improved product offering for Melhart Music. The company can now provide an alternative metal coating to the traditionally painted music towers, introducing a galvanized coating application that sets a new specification standard for these large structures.
Being able to work together on the fabrication and galvanizing design requirements has tremendously improved the quality and growth potential of this large unique structure.
