FVHS marching band competed in a competition at Montgomery Central High School on Oct. 4. They won first place in color guard, percussion, music, marching, general effect and overall first place in Class 1A. The Marching Bengals were tied for the second highest score of the day. Congratulations to the new band director Avery Butler as she led the marching band to win in most of their categories at Montgomery High.

“One of the things we do, leading up to when we’re walking onto the field, we just take a couple deep breaths and do some breathing exercises. And we get together and have a bit of a pep talk,” said senior and mellophone player Sebastian Spaulding.

The pressure of a competition may have stressed some of the students out while the band still received second overall. Most band members try to stay relaxed and focused leading up to a competition. Marching band goes beyond just being an afterschool activity. It’s an open community that various band members can contribute to.

“My favorite part of marching band is the community. You always have someone to sit with and talk to,” said senior and color guard captain Violetta Stratis.

Despite the marching band’s overall second place performance, some people are still looking to improve. Some are looking to work on big playing moments while others want the band to keep growing.

“Theres always work to be done. Our visual technique is something that’s hard to get as you’re playing. We’re trying to get all of that to coordinate, I think we’re doing a really good job playing,” said senior drum major Danielle Johnson.

The band members hope to keep on succeeding in their competitions and keep growing. The Marching band will be playing at the Homecoming football game versus Smithfield-Salem on Oct. 17 as well as at the Festival of Bands on Oct. 18. Come out and support the band and color guard as they keep working.