On Saturday, October 28th, the marching band had a banquet to celebrate the end of the season. It was also to reminisce on the good memories with the seniors. It was an emotional, yet fun night, filled with laughter, tears, and good vibes.

It was my last time going to the banquet as a member of the marching band. Going in, I felt excited. Four years of marching band has really taken a toll on me. It is a demanding activity not only physically, but emotionally too. I was ready to be free of the stress and time that marching band took up.

Throughout the night, there was a slide show of moments that happened through the season. Some were intense pictures of us performing, while others were candid shots of happy faces. Looking around the room, everyone had a smile on their faces as they shared memories together.

I know I won’t miss the hard times and long practices that I had during marching band. I stayed up countless nights cramming to finish my homework or in tears over the painful practice that had occurred. But I will miss the connections I have made with people. I will miss how I could always count on people in the band to share my emotions with and get out all of the stress and frustration.

One thing that made marching band bearable was the staff. Not only did they help better us technically and musically as a band and as individuals, but they cared for us deeply, which is something hard to find. They always knew how to make me smile whenever I was upset. They always knew what to say. The staff had a special connection with the band that made it fun and took a small amount of the stress away.

It is hard to believe that four years have passed since I was a scared freshman, wanting to give up and just quit. I am so glad I didn’t. It was the toughest thing, doing marching band for four years. I have come out stronger, more talented, and more determined than I have ever been before. I will never forget how marching band has changed me.

“It was evident that every member worked very hard throughout the season,” said Emma Flick, 12. “It was a great way to end my last season [as drum major].”

To all the people who think about giving up something difficult, don’t do it. If you push through it, push past all the frustration, you will be surprised at the outcome and how much stronger you become.