03/17/2020
This is a post written by a director from a well-known band program that is absolutely spot on. Take a moment and read it...It brings light to so many aspects of this activity that people don't realize, and it further explains the great sacrifices and character building blocks that marching band members experience while giving of themselves to this activity that we all love so much..
"So what’s the big deal about high school marching band?
Band students spend hours upon hours working to perfect a show for perfomances that will last around 8 minutes. Each performance is a big deal. If someone has a bad 20 seconds, it can wreak havoc on the entire band. If someone is confused, or not quite sure of the next move, there is no opportunity to call time out and get clarification. The band gets 7-8 minutes to showcase what they've spent hundreds of hours working on. They don't get 4 quarters, 2 halves, or 9 innings- just a few minutes. If someone isn't feeling well, twists their ankle, or gets knocked on their rear, they can't call time-out and ask for a sub. The show must go on. After the performance is over, not one performer will have their name in the paper, or get special recognition for their outstanding individual performance. Band is a team activity and not one person is recognized publicly for their outstanding performance that week. Everyone works hard, day in and day out, for the team-the group, knowing that they will not be singled out for special recognition. All the work is done for the good of the group. That's extremely awesome. Hug a band kid, or at least give them a high 5 after their next performance. GO BAND!!!!"
Seriously...HUG A BAND KID!
