First Invitational !

Well. It's done. We can say that our first competition is over. I really expected far worse from the way the boys have been talking. They actually looked pretty good and sounded much better than the last time I saw them rehearse. Even in our division (Class D) we were one of the smaller bands. We have 46 members this year. Most bands in our division have 70-90. There was one band there smaller than us--they only had 22. What pressure when you're that small! Virtually every musician had solos at some point! The number included their flags! They outmarched and outplayed us. We placed 3rd out of 4 and won Best Pit. The most valuable things from these invitationals are the experience and judge's comments. Those things help with the next competition, which will be next Saturday!

Drum Majors have gold sashes.
Zac and "his freshman". They are the only 2 alto saxes this year. After seeing these photos, he will have to talk with her about how she holds her instrument!
They let Jake out of pit to march with the quads in the first number. Notice no "carrier" for those quads? They are under the uniform! Jake says it's quite uncomfortable...but it sure looks sharp!
Zac is one of the few Seniors left in band. He was voted Band President this year.
Game face?
We don't usually add general effects (dance moves/special moves) until later in the season. It was cool to be able to see them this early!
Jacob hard at work. We won Best Pit Award!
Zac hard at work.

Strike a pose!

Awards and sun flares! Pretty cool!