Band wins first place at Popcorn Days
September 13, 2022
The band marched at Popcorn Days in Ridegway, taking first place once again.
The first Popcorn Day was April 12, 1958. During this annual celebration people enjoy live entertainment, rides, games, free popcorn, and the big parade. It is typically the first parade of the season for the Marching Bulldogs.
The band has been working very hard to get ready for parade season. The music and marching has improved since band camp in August.
“ At the beginning of band camp, many of the students hadn’t learned the music, let alone memorized it, but since then we’ve studied and are able to play it from memory and march at the same time,” senior Maren Russell said.
Not only have they been practicing hard but have been building the confidence to meet the expectations of band director Hannah Drake.
Senior Sadie Foy feels good about the upcoming parades.
“I’m really confident. I think we will do just as great as we always do,” Foy said.
In addition to parades, the band also has to be prepared for field shows during home varsity football games. Drake is torn about her favorite song out of the whole field show.
“It’s probably two. I really like the transition between “All That Jazz” and into “Industry Baby,” Drake said. “You have all the really impactful parts of “Industry Baby” in the introduction that you don’t expect when all the brass comes in. I think we have a really nice sound there so probably both of those.”
Band can be more than just another activity for many members of the Marching Bulldogs.
“My personal favorite part about being a part of a band is honestly the experience that comes with it,” junior Ian Hodges said. “Such as having field shows and of course our band trips and traveling to parades. Being in band can open up opportunities of a lifetime if you put in hard work and dedication.”
