They support school spirit, brighten up football games with their musical performances and represent Eagle High’s dedication to the art of music. They are none other than the Eagle High marching band.
The band works tirelessly each day, not only to improve as individuals but also to strengthen their bond as a team. Throughout the season, the band will perform at multiple competitions, as well as Eagle High’s varsity football games. Their primary goals are to improve their skills, build stronger connections with one another and of course, compete for the DIII Championships, the biggest competition of their season.
“My goals for this season are to create a strong community and rebuild the band,” said sophomore Zoe Bronner.
Bronner, a percussionist who plays snare drum, has been part of the marching band since her freshman year. Along with her focus on fostering a sense of community, she, like many of her peers, is dedicated to mastering the skills necessary for the band’s success.
The band has a packed schedule this year, juggling performances at football games, competitions and occasionally at school assemblies. Over the course of the season, the band will perform at six to eight football games and compete in three major events. These events include the West Ada Competition and Clinic, the Treasure Valley Festival of Bands and the DIII Championships at Boise State University (BSU). They are working hard to prepare for these events.
“Band camp starts on Aug.4, from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. each day until August 8,” said sophomore Santiago Virgen Calata.
Virgen, who plays clarinet and has been in the marching band for two years, emphasized the commitment required for the upcoming season. “After band camp, when school starts, we’ll have rehearsals every Tuesday and Thursday.” Like everyone in the band, Virgen and his teammates are putting in the necessary effort to contend for the DIII Championships.
The people leading the band to victory are drum majors and the director. This year are two drum majors, Nathan Smith and Porter Schrader. The director of the band this year is Tyler Eriksen.
As the season progresses, the Eagle High marching band is not only focused on achieving their musical goals but also on strengthening the sense of community within the band. By the end of the season, they hope to achieve all the goals they have set for themselves—musically, socially and competitively.
