BHS band went to competition Thursday, Mar. 19. The band goes to competition all throughout the year, but preparation is different for the different band “seasons.”
Concert season preparation is somewhat harder because the students tend to talk more.
“We work all semester trying to develop a good sound that is in tune with the rest of the band. After that, we play a lot of songs to try and select three,” said director Jon Bland.
Obviously, the students have to listen and take in what the directors instruct. Students do so by taking heed to the tips given.
“I listen to Mr. Bland’s tips because it helps us correct our mistakes and learn from them. At the end it makes us have a better sound,” said William Tutor.
“Mr. Roberts helps step-by-step and note-by-note. He pushes me every day and not only me , but the whole band,” said Matthew Parker.
“I believe most of everything taught will be used. There will be slip ups where they might not play as good as we did in class. They use about 95% or more of what we have taught,” said Cody Roberts, assistant director.
With the directors preparing them, they also have to prepare themselves, most specifically so to get a 1.
“I practiced my music and corrected the things Mr. Bland told me to correct,” said Essence Armstrong.
“I think I’m going to do really well, along with the rest of the band. We all work really hard and I believe we are going to make a 1,” said Noelle Griffin.
“I believe the band is going to do well because we are put in different bands. We get more practice with the director. I think we will do good,” said Kendrica Roberts.
Bruce band captains, from left, Kim Ratliff, Kayde Coleman, Chelsea Tillman, Aleta Brown, Anfernee Taylor, Katelyn Swanson, Jadwin Manuel, Torie Patton, Taylor Haire, McKenzie Morris and Caitlin McCormick. Photo by Joel McNeece