Marching band works hard for recognition

Posted on September 27, 2017 by Emily Lambie in Features // 0 Comments

The Southmoreland High School Marching Band is there rain or shine for every home football game. The marching band competes with other schools around the area and puts in hours and hours of practice, just like the sports teams.

“It is something that has influenced my life greatly and without it I don’t know what type of person I would be” said senior Grace Vivio. “I have been drum major for the band for two years now and have really enjoyed the experience of leading this band.”

Grace has been apart of the marching band since she was in 8th grade and enjoys performing with all her friends.

Southmoreland Marching Band Director, Mr. Shawn Harris has been directing the marching band for five years.

“I used to be apart of marching band in high school and college,” said Mr. Harris. “I really enjoy working with these students because they show me how to work together and how to accept others.”

The team practices Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays and a total of over 200 hours throughout the season. They practice for three hours each time and practice prior to every football game and competition. They deal with every kind of weather condition.

“Practices depend on the energy and drive, brought by each band member,” said Ms. Bethany Hutira, colorguard instructor. “Overall practices are intense.”

Ms. Hutira has been apart of the colorguard for 20 years.

“I would be crazy to do all that work and spend all that time, for two decades,” said Ms. Hutira, “and not enjoy working with the guard.”

The band has been together throughout all sorts of mental and physical challenges and is one big family.

“In band, we don’t think about the time and effort we put in; it’s just the nature of the beast,” said Ms. Hutira. “Once we realized how much sweat, sores and tears were put into all this, it proved how strong we really are.”