Marching Band

Marching+Band

The Lincoln-Way Marching Band is a competitive sport including all three schools: West, East and Central. Their show’s theme for 2021 season is entitled Metamorphosis and intricately displays the meaning of growth and purity. The LWMB has 6 total competitions throughout fall which are: the Victor J. Andrew Invitational; A.A. Stagg competition; BOA Regional in Clarksville, Tennessee; ISU State competition; Lincoln-Way’s Invitational; and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade. Marching Band is not just about winning or competing, it’s about the people. It’s the bonds you create with them and becoming a part of the family. They all come and go, but never leave the hearts of alumni, current and future members. These bonds follow you throughout life and teach you respect.  

I interviewed four students, at least one from each school and one from each grade level. The questions I imposed were:

  1. How had marching band impacted you?
  2. How did you get into LWMB?
  3. And What are you hoping to gain/ gained by being in marching band?

First off, I interviewed Chris Olson, a senior saxophonist (Central). “My first year in marching band, I felt really intimidated. These people seemed like they already bonded with each other, their groups, and I didn’t know what I could do to fit in. I thought that I would have to wait 2 to 3 years to find my own group when I was an upperclassmen, but everyone in my section was incredibly inclusive. They let me right in with open arms, and I’ve made it my purpose to do that to other new members. Marching band isn’t just a place where you go and march your heart out at competitions, it’s a place where you go to become a better musician and make life-long friends.”

The next person is Katie Jennings, a junior on drum line (West). “Marching band has brought me a lot of new friendships I didn’t think I would have and had given me amazing memories I will cherish for the rest of my life. It’s satisfying to go to a competition and perform your absolute best and know that all those long hours of practice brought you to that moment. But when you look back, you realize all the people that got you there and that’s something to cherish forever. It’s helped me with time management with homework and balancing it with marching band. My senior year, I would like to be a section leader and set a good example for others to follow. Music has always been my passion and to be a part of this great organization has made me a better person and musician.”

Next up is Maddie Clark, a sophomore drum major (East). “Last year, I joined marching band and fell in love with the organization. I tried out as drum major, not sure what to expect and was over the moon once I gained a leadership position. I was a little disappointed that we didn’t have a real season last year, but it helped me make so many memories. I’m so thankful to have competitions to experience this year and I cannot wait for the years to come. Marching band has impacted the way I look on life and realize how short of time we have and to just live in the moment.”

Lastly, is Daniel Canal, a freshman baritone (East). “I’ve been doing band since 5th grade and really enjoy music. I originally wanted to do football, but I didn’t want to lose my ambition for music. I joined marching band for my brother and to just experience what it was really like. I realized I was still great at music and wanted to become one of the best. I hope to gain not only scholarships, but learn discipline and time management. I wouldn’t have changed my decision to be a part of the LWMB and I’m just to grateful for all the people I’ve met this year. Marching band has improved my friendships and impacted my mindset of how to perceive the people in your life. You never know how much they affect it.”  

 Overall, marching band is not just an activity, but a family. If this doesn’t prove the true meaning of friendship, respect, dedication and ambition of young musicians, I don’t know what does. The LWMB is one band out of hundreds that has been given amazing opportunities and have accomplished not just wins, but created a community of supportive people who have become a truly great family for generations of musicians.