Hard work, sweat, and even tears is what Jacksonville High School Marching Crimsons put into their show and music. This marching season the band began preparing for the upcoming football games and contests a month before the school year even began. Band camp for three weeks and practices three nights a week means that for these kids and coaches, band isn’t just about playing an instrument or spinning a silk.
This year’s field show features classic rock songs such as “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen, “Tom Sawyer” by the group Rush, “School’s Out” by Alice Cooper, and “Another Brick in the Wall” by Pink Floyd. Some have mentioned the songs holding a certain note of rebellion, but in the long run, they make for a fantastic show.
“I think the field show music gets the crowd ready for the second half of the game,” said Sarah Dawdy, a member of marching band. Dawdy also stated that her favorite song to perform is “Bohemian Rhapsody,” while “Tom Sawyer” has been the hardest to learn. Many members of the band agree with her on that.
Band isn’t just a walk in the park for anyone. It requires a lot of time and practice in order for it all to come together. Not everyone can handle it easily; there are a lot of bumps in the road and not enough time for mistakes.
“The hardest part of band is giving 110 percent all the time. Every time. No matter the weather, how you feel, or how much attitude is given,” said Peyton Beal, a senior member of the band. Beal also said, “The easiest part is performing once you have learned everything. After that point, it really isn’t that bad.”
With upcoming shows and performances, tensions are high for many including the band director Matt Johnson. The first field show competition of the season is in Monticello on September 20. Even with all of the practice and time that has been put in, there are still some rough patches to the show.
“I am mostly worried about the show at Monticello. I usually don’t get too nervous because I am not the one on the field performing,” said Johnson. And Johnson isn’t the only one.
This marching season, like every other, these kids do what they do because they love it. It takes time, commitment, and patience to join the marching band.