by Molly Meeks |
The Liberty Fall Festival has rolled around again, which for band members means it is time to march in the annual parade on Saturday September 29. The parade starts at 10:30 a.m.
The band marches in the parade every year but for some, this is the first time they will appear.
“I’m excited because I’ve never been in the Fall Festival! This is my first year marching in the parade, but I did march in the parade in Hawaii,” sophomore Kristen Lonsdale said.
While about a fourth of the band is excited at the chance of a new experience, most juniors and seniors are veterans.
“Street marching is easy, I’ve done it for three years now,” senior Audrey Arns said.
During the parade, the band will be street marching, which they practice every morning at the beginning of marching band practice. The band stands in a block with the drumline at the center and walks the route around the square. Throughout the entire parade, students must stay on the correct foot, always walking in step with each other and staying in straight lines.
Street marching might be easily accomplished with daily practice, but beating the heat may create more of a dilemma.
“The uniforms are really hot, so we are probably going to get really sweaty,” Lonsdale said.
A wool uniform worn over a t-shirt and shorts can be sweaty business. Some cooperation with the weather may help, and could be the difference needed to keep students from over-heating or possibly passing out.
“Party Rock Anthem” by LMFAO, the song played for the Sapphires pregame performance, is the music selection for this year’s parade.
“I really like the song we’re playing. I have never heard bands play songs that were popular or that we would hear on the radio or something,” Lonsdale said.
Some may have not noticed that during the song band, members shout, “Shake That!” and sing, “Everyday I’m shufflin.” Yelling and singing may seem a little strange but is sure to add excitement to the parade performance, and band members will make the most of the day either way.
“I am excited, because it’s fun to hang out with your friends and make jokes about all the dumb stuff we have to do. I like seeing people along the parade,” junior Danna Burgeson said.
The band will march in this annual event for about 45 minutes. They will be looking out for Blue Jays lining the streets, as they help bring a festive spirit to the streets of Liberty with music.
