During the last week of July, the James A. Garfield Marching Pride successfully completed its 2023-2024 school year band camp, in preparation for the upcoming football season. All 64 dedicated members assembled daily at the high school from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for rehearsals, physical exercises, and teamwork practice to ensure a seamless halftime show. Senior Landen Gedeon proudly assumed leadership of the band for all four days as the new band president, working alongside his vice president, Aaron Rodhe (Senior). The two collaborated in mentoring younger marchers in 8th and 9th grade, receiving ample support from other band officers. Band director Mr. Theo Cebulla extended a warm welcome to Ms. Miller, a new student teacher for this year. She shared valuable tips and tricks she had acquired, infusing fresh perspectives into the Marching Pride.
Despite the majority of the band being comprised of new marchers, they managed to accomplish a complete halftime show within the span of four days. They learned four songs and two marching drills during this intensive experience. Selections from QUEEN and Bruno Mars, as well as songs like “BANG BANG” and “Never Gonna Give You Up,” helped maintain their enthusiasm and energy even through temperatures ranging from 80°F to 90°F.
At the conclusion of the week, students were generously treated to dinner by the Band Boosters and Parents, following their long days of practice. Furthermore, on the final day of band camp, the band officers organized a color-themed event where each instrument section donned distinct colors and performed a skit. While the skit performance had been a tradition in previous years, it was temporarily discontinued after the pandemic. The Marching Band will continue rigorous practice in the coming weeks leading up to their first performance on August 13th, scheduled from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., during Fall Premiere Night at the J.A.G. football field. The band is also slated to perform at the first home football game against Normandy on September 2nd.
This article was written through a partnership with The Weekly Villager.