Historic season puts HC Marching Band ahead of the competition

The HC Marching Band has been having a very successful season. At a recent invitational, the band placed 2nd, losing only to the defending state champs. They also competed at Lafayette, placing 2nd out of the eight teams taking part. Later, on Oct 7, the marching band competed in the Bands of America competition, where they faced off against bands from across the nation. They performed outstandingly, making it to the finals and taking 5th place. After experiencing their extremely successful season, band members are overjoyed by their performance so far.

“We’ve been having the best season we’ve ever had in the four years I’ve been here,” HC Senior and drum major Angelica Malkowski said.

Although they are having a strong season, their performance has not come about easily. Members of the marching band have had to work hard to achieve such results.

“We… have rehearsal four days a week,” Malkowski said. “We usually practice two and one-half to three and one-half hours each practice.”

Their long practices and frequent meetings are not easy things to fit into a schedule packed with school and other activities. Marching band members sometimes practice up to 14 hours a week, not even taking into account their practice outside of marching band. That can be a large burden on any teenager, but especially those who are preparing for college.

“It’s mentally challenging,” HC Senior and color guard captain Madison Gumm said.

They have worked  hard and HC Band Director Bill Kite recognizes that, and is very impressed by the effort members of marching band have put in.

“Their hours are really long and hard,” Kite said. “They have done a great job… [and] I’m super proud of them.”

The students also feel they have grown during their time in marching band, and not just in the physical sense. Although marching band helps players become stronger and more proficient players, it also helps the members evolve as people. Marching band has assisted many in developing valuable life aspects.

“[Marching band] has helped me develop leadership skills,” Gumm said.

She is not alone; Malkowski also feels like marching band can help someone develop leadership abilities. Malkowski believes marching has taught her valuable skills that are useful in every situation.

“[Marching band] helps you learn to work with people… and be more responsible,” Malkowski said.

Members of marching band have had to put all of these valuable and hard-earned skills to the test during their season. They have had to work hard to achieve their success, and should be proud of their performance. Their next competition is on Saturday, Oct 14th, which is something to look forward to.