Should I Join Marching Band?

Ken Diem

Allison Yeomans and Carley Shoop at the end of their Drum Major Salute

Carley Shoop, Performing Arts and Feature Editor

The Marion Center Marching Band is handing out sign-ups and some are asking the question, Should I join Marching Band? I say to absolutely give it a shot. We create a fun and comfortable environment for everybody and we are truly one of the most diverse groups in this school. No matter who you are or what you want to do, there is a place for you. Have an instrument you haven’t played since elementary school? Pick it back up, no one will judge you for skill level. Don’t have an instrument? The school has many instruments you can borrow. Have no interest in playing an instrument? Join colorguard and do cool tricks with flags.

Many people are worried about being judged for skill level if they have never done something like this before, but we have a wide range of musicians in marching band. We have the whole way from people who just picked up their instruments to All-State musicians. Most people that join colorguard don’t know anything about twirling at first, but our directors and section leaders will help you along the way.

There is a place for everyone in this band. We have robotics kids, art kids, sports kids, FBLA kids, FFA kids, and more. You get to meet and interact with so many people you wouldn’t normally get to see and talk to. Not to mention, being part of the band helps build important skills you will need in the future outside of musical settings. You will learn to work together with so many different types of people and get to work together to make a really amazing product. Our director, Mr. Page, always says “The things you do together are more meaningful than the things you do on your own” and being part of the band will help you come to appreciate what a group of people can come together and create.

One of the most obvious things we do is travel. We go to every football game as well as parades, festivals, the elementary schools, and more that we got invited to. We go on big trips every few years, like the Disney trip we took in February. You will get to see so many things and be able to participate in so many things if you decide to join the band and we promise to make it worth your while.