Against nine bands in their division, the ELVB placed 2nd in their national performance after entering into the competition. Their other awards include Best Percussion, Best Visual, and Best Ensemble Music awards.
“I think as a collective unit, they perform very well together. We were very fortunate to have a good percussion section. We have a good visual component, focusing on making sure we are performing to the best of our abilities. This success shows that we’re doing the right work. This feels good,” marching band director Justin Daly said.
Marching band competitions look very different in comparison to other sports competitions. Each band is placed into divisions based on size, and performs in front of seven judges. The ELVB is a smaller-sized band, so they are in Class 2A. Each judge evaluates specific parts of the show, such as timing, individual music (how certain instruments sound) ensemble music (how everybody sounds), visuals, music effect, visual effect, color guard, and percussion.
Each of these specific areas are scored and totaled to create the average, which is the final score. The score is then compared to the other bands within the division, and whoever has the highest score wins. The band who won overall, Central Dauphin East High School, scored 92.700 out of 100. The ELVB scored 91.400.
“We had been rehearsing for months, and for every one of our competitions, the goal is to improve. In the week leading up to this competition, we were trying to prepare them to have the best performance they can,” Mr. Daly said.
The preparations for the national competition were months in the making, from color guard’s performance to the music. Practices and local competitions were filled with hard work, dedication, and teamwork.
“We just go into it thinking that we’re doing what we do for us, and no one else,” drum major and senior Emma Clausen said.
Even when they didn’t perform as well as they hoped, their team spirit was unwavering.
“At every single competition, after the scores are announced, the student leaders sprint across the field, and we just scream and cheer, no matter the score. We always do that, and I love that about the band,” sophomore trumpet player Sarya Abdelrahman said.
Even though this season is over, their success has only begun. Preparations for next year’s season have already started, and the ELVB plans on building on this national achievement next fall by growing the program.
“I plan on recruiting students as hard as I can. We’re gonna let the results speak for themselves. We’re going to pick a good show and make a good visual performance for next year, and we’re gonna trust the process,” Mr. Daly said.
“I don’t have any worries. I know we’re leaving the band in really good hands,” brass captain and senior Quinn Dwyer said.
While the seniors may have said goodbye to their time with ELVB, they believe the program success will continue.
“I thank everybody for supporting the band. And if anybody wants to join the band, let me know. Because we’re going to continue to do great things.” Mr. Daly said.
