Tears, laughs, and cheers of happiness were all shared at the band banquet April 28 as members of the Southmoreland marching band and guests gathered that evening to celebrate the new theme for the 2018-2019 season, to reminisce on the previous season, and to celebrate the seniors.  

The celebration was held at the East Huntington fire hall that night. Decorations commemorated the previous season, with Scottie colors and silks hung up from their  previous show, “I Am.”

After food was served, preparations to play the video for the new theme began. Everyone grew still in excitement while waiting for the video that would announce what the new season would be representing. “Mechi-Nation” was the word that appeared. The new theme is about mechanicalism and technology. Songs that will be in the show include “Short Ride In A Fast Machine” by John Adams, “Machine Messiah” by Yes, “Urban Dances” by Erik Morales, “The Hymn of Acxiom” by Vienna Teng, and “Raging Machines” by Brian Balmages.

“I feel as if the new theme has so much potential,”  said Caitlyn Slezak, a member of the color guard. “If we play our cards right, we could have a jaw dropping show. I’m so excited to start working on the new show.”

The next video played was a summary of the 2017-2018 season, pictures and videos from band camp, competitions, football games, and parades and a recap of their wonderful trip to Disney World. 

“I enjoyed the banquet a lot,” said Maitlyn Fronczek. “Getting to see everyone once again and just finally taking credit for how far we have all come over the last few months and that our hard work paid off.”

The last video shown, and the saddest of all, was a contribution to all 21 of the seniors graduating this year. A short video clip was played for each individual senior, with pictures from their childhood and future plans for college.

“Although the senior videos made me tear up, I wouldn’t want to be upset about any other group of seniors,” said Fronczek.”They have all accomplished great things over the little time that I have had the pleasure to share with them. And they will go on to do many amazing things.”

With that, the banquet was over, but this marks a new beginning for the 2018-2019 marching band and the new season to come.