08/25/2025
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There is something incredibly special about band kids.
The hours of practice that begin in elementary school. Itβs the squeaking and squawking of a new alto or the flutter of early flute days, high-pitched honks from a trumpet, constant and consistent tapping . . . drumming on everything. And gallons of spit too, until one day a few years down the road, you realize all that practice time has turned into an incredible melody and skill.
The alarm that goes off at 5:35 a.m., and before most people are awake, band kids have sleepily found a quick breakfast bite, grabbed their backpacks, and headed to the school to ready their instruments, get warmed up, and hustle across the field before the morning dew has dried. Pre-dawn orders are shouted by coffee-toting band directors, and the section leaders dutifully carry the responsibility to lead the
group.
The Friday night lights many think are meant for football, but itβs the band that steps on the field first to play the National Anthem to bring the crowd to its feet, bring a tear to an eye, a hand over the heart. Itβs the band that plays the school fight song and celebrates the unity of generations in the crowd, young and old who attended the school. Itβs the halftime show that captivates the audience with their coordinated and creative use of a white-lined field.
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