A Change in Time

to school and begin practice by 7:00 a.m. The musicians practice their formations and music until it is ready to present to an audience. They accomplish this through any weather condition, as well. The marching season spans from early August to late November, therefore presenting both sides of the temperature spectrum. Through the heat waves of summer and the bitter cold of late fall, I enjoying hearing the sweet sounds of the band echoing through the campus. During a performance, the members of the band also have to overcome “stage fright”. They must learn to perform in front of hundreds of shouting fans at football games and for a quiet audience at formal concerts. Adding to the work the band members must complete, all the music must be memorized and often played while moving in a choreographed sequence. Although being a musician is hard work, it obviously pays off and yields many beautiful performances. Without the band, our football games would be bland and lifeless. The music of marching band brings students to their feet and hundreds of enthusiastic hands together. The impressive formations and powerful music brings the crowd to a roar as they express their school spirit. Students, West High Alumni, parents and teachers arrive and show their respect when the first half comes to a close and the band takes the field. The sea of red and white inspire the crowd to cheer as our football team rests up. The game can continue as a success with the reaffirmation the music brings. Just hearing the marching band and seeing the impressive display brings pride to the hearts of the loyal Falcon fans. At every football game, I am proud to support my team and listen to the band play our school song triumphantly. The marching band is an essential part of a high school and it provides a worthwhile activity for the students to participate in. In this day and age, there are countless things a teenager could do in his or her free time. Being a member of the band keeps teenagers out of trouble and teaches them valuable life lessons. Responsibility, pride and teamwork are just a few of the lessons the band can offer. The marching is good exercise and the music works your brain. It has been proven that musically inclined children are more successful in school and less likely to be involved in drugs and alcohol. The band offers a way to express yourself positively and create beautiful art that you will have for the rest of your life. The band is both a beneficial and a rewarding activity for teenagers to involve themselves in. Everyone should appreciate the positive effects of the marching band on the school. The hard work they display is a reflection on the students who attend the school, as well. The school spirit that is derived from watching and listening to the marching band is unrivaled. As well as the positive atmosphere the band’s music brings, the marching band provides the kind of organization that is needed in our society today. The band will continue to be an important part of our high school as it mirrors successful years gone by.