Sparks

I’m interested to see how the Keller/Waxahachie drama continues to play out. Which will place higher tomorrow? Regardless, go Marcus!

As a former Marcus parent, I have seen many marching shows over the years. I have seen every band that was in the Area B finals at some contest this year, but with the weather, I may not have seen them since they put the final touches on their show. No on had "easy music" by any means measured. However, my nephew plays football now and we went to the Waxahachie game to see him and to see the band who is the reigning 5A honor band. We sat at the game with some Cadet Alumni who just wanted to see the show because of the "Trittico" by Nelhybel. Their amazment that a high school band could play this and play it well, in September I might add, was genuine. I concede that other bands have difficult music, but no one can claim that theirs is more difficult, because that just isn't the truth. It's your opinion. I have heard Ms. Drinkwater wax poetic about the precsion and execution of diffiicult music done by Waxahachie in marching, concert and jazz. It's okay to think your band is great. It's okay to think you should have placed higher. When you try to make a case that your band plays or marches better than another, it shows your bias. It isn't classy. I thought all these bands had gorgeous programs. I really wish I could have been two places on Saturday night. I am going to SA to see all the bands this weekend and prelims on Monday. I wouldn't be suprised to see a couple of the Area B bands in finals, with Marcus I hope!

Well, private lessons are very expensive. They make a huge difference. Dance instructors, props, better quality instruments and nicer uniforms all are very expensive. GE can be influenced by money, less so in UIL. However, it is still up to the kids to practice, work hard and succeed. It’s a little of both. Can you name me a highly successful band program from a poor district. I’m not sure.

UIL doesnt rewards the part ofband that is easier to influence with money, general effect. It helps poorer school districts be able to compete with the more affluent ones. It keeps it more in line with other UIL events. I have seen this same thing happen in BOA. When you have judges, you will have subjectivity and variances. UIL isn’t perfect, but it works.

I am very proud of Waxahachie, but this was as good as any state contest I have ever attended as a 13 year band parent. Breaks my heart for Timber Creek, but also L.D. Bell who is a perrinial state contest participant.

AllI can say is everyone better bring their A game! Keller, Bell, Waxahachie, Prosper, Coppell, Duncanville, Timber Creek, Oh My! Let your marching do your talking. Will there be a live podcast?

As a former Marcus parent, I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I might be in Birdville on Saturday. This is going to be close. When will we know the schedule be posted? Wow! Is TX Bands going to be there?

Our band fees are $200 if you work in the concession stand one time. If you don't want to work, them a $100 non-participation fee is assessed. We get very little from out district.

Do we know top five/ bottom five?

How does this list match up to BOA DFW today?

Times?

I was very impressed musically with Waxahachie’s show several weeks ago but didn’t see the finale. The brass fanfare is stellar! I hope their marching catches up. I predict they’ll make finals. Didn’t make it out today. I’ve been following the blog.

I am a Marcus Parent Alum... This is going to be a year of change but they will get there. I think having placed this welll in a transition year speaks for itself.