Grand Look for Military Marching

The Grand Band has debuted a new look this year. In his second year as head band director, Mr. Russell Holland has made several changes to the band’s uniforms, music, and marching routine.

The band will compete in the UIL Region Marching contest at McGregor on October 19, 2022. 

“This year’s show is a much more energetic show and tighter toward the front and center section of the field,” Holland said. “It is also much more dangerous with quick, sharp movements that make injury to the face easy, so we practice safety procedures and make sure everyone understands what we are about to do before we do it. I hope it is a fun show for the audiences to enjoy.”

If the band advances to state, they will compete on November 7-9.

“I think the band has a great shot of going further than we did last year,” drum major Jy’Rion Bell said. “Everyone is working hard and doing their part, therefore I believe that we have a shot at state this year.”

Last year the band made it to the UIL Area competition and placed in 11th, not advancing to State.

“I really hope that we can make it to the State competition this year,” sophomore squad leader Skylar Bonner said. “I also really think that Mr. Holland is doing a good job leading the band.” 

The band has replaced the khakis and t-shirts that were usually worn in the warmer months with new uniforms in maroon and gray bought from a military contractor.

“I think they are cool,” assistant band director Gust Witt said. “I think that it is a really distinguished look for the band.”

There are 165 people in the band, including 27 seniors.  Drum majors include senior Jy’Rion Bell, junior Kaliyah Gasaway, and junior Emily Kent. Captain of uniform crew is senior Elizabeth Rath, and co-captain is senior Britney Delgado. Captain of the loading crew is senior Jonathan Thomas, and co-captain senior Sebastain Mathews. Twirler captain is Gilbrea McNeil and flag captain is Destiny Dowell.