HHS band members comment on success of season.
“We are the blue streak band, and we like to party” is just one of the marching band’s signature football game songs and even though the band does enjoy having fun, it is clear that at their weekend competitions the band get down to business.
“In our last competition we placed 1st. It meant a lot to us because we have never gotten 1st before in the history of HHS marching band,” junior Alena Lawrence said.
The band got a first place ranking at their last Saturday competition. “It’s cool to see how much we progress as a band; we spend so much time together and get along so well that it’s like we are a family.” Lawrence said.
At the competitions the band performs their half-time show that is seen during the half-time of football games. The band also gets to see other bands perform their shows. “Jeb Stewart High School, Varina High School and Colonial Heights High School are all very good. We didn’t actually get to see Colonial Heights perform this year, but I know they’re good because they’ve beaten us before.” Lawrence said.
As a more experienced marcher, Lawrence reflects on her years in the marching band. “With every new year of competitions we have different strengths and weaknesses, but it is just cool to see the band progress. It is good too because now that I am a junior it is easier to march and play simultaneously. It just takes time and a lot of practice,” Lawrence said.
The band is able to achieve this level of excellence through intense practices after school. “We do jumping jacks, stretches, and warm ups. Then we go through spots that need work. It is a lot of repetition. Practices run for about two and a half hours,” Lawrence said.
Freshmen Dorrall Price and Breton Nicholas have enjoyed the marching season and intend on marching again next year. “I’ll definitely march next year; I’m looking forward to it,” Nicholas said.
Nicholas has learned a lot throughout the season and he can see the band’s hard work is paying off. “My favorite thing we do is run songs. I think it is cool to learn how to make awesome formations on the football field,” Nicholas said.
Price looks up to drum major senior Elana Swartz for leadership and as a sort of glue keeping the show tight. “I look up to Elana because she keeps people in line,” Price said.
Lawrence also commends Swartz for her leadership this year. “The band’s peppy attitude is my favorite part of practice, it makes band fun and Elana is really encouraging. She is an amazing drum major,” Lawrence said.
The HHS band’s final competition will be the State Festival on October 25th. Good luck Streaks!
