I was overly excited a few Fridays ago, thinking about ho,w towards the end of the day, I would get to put on that amazing uniform and go support my team. I’m writing to tell you about what an amazing experience it is. As a freshman, I wasn’t really sure what to think about it, but I thought I had an idea of what it was going to be like, considering I was a band aide last year! Well, I couldn’t have been more wrong if I tried. It is not just like being a band aide!

   First off, we had to put on the uniform, which is fine, but it is so hot with the gloves, hat, and full uniform. Then you have to make sure everything is perfectly white, which is exhausting. Then, if you have holes or something is too big, you have to go get it pinned by the awesome uniform moms. Then you have to put the placards on, which is a pain because of all the buttons.  It was still more fun to look like the band than to wear shorts and a t-shirt!

   Next, you have to memorize a bunch of music and drills that go along with the music.  It is hard, especially when you’re new and overwhelmed. But it is fun. Then you have to make sure your lines are straight because Mr. Redd always says, “everyone’s an expert at straight lines”. Then you are petrified that you are going to mess up and step out of line or on the wrong foot, then you freak out and can’t really enjoy the first half of the game, thinking and overthinking your steps for when you are on the field. Then you get onto the field.  After the first piece, you really enjoy yourself and think you never want it to end, but then it does, and you are so excited. The best part is we are all human, so if we make a mistake, it’s ok. You just keep going, and people will understand. 

   There are also a bunch of perks for joining the Dover band. You get into the games for free and get to get out of school early to go to the practice field.  In all seriousness, you learn discipline, hard work, teamwork, and leadership. These are all valuable life skills that you get taught in band. The band is fun and encourages people. You get to go to games and cheer on your team, you get to play music, and scream and dance on the fields. Band is hard, but it is a very rewarding and disciplined sport. 

   I personally love the band, even as a band aide; it was rewarding and fun. You get to death march, get to help the band, and experience Friday night lights without all the stress of actually performing on the field. I kind of thought it was going to be the same but different really. The only thing that is the same is the loving family the whole band provides for me. Even the death march is different; you have an instrument and different moves for it.  

   The band is truly a loving and supportive group. I am going to miss all the seniors, but I am very excited for the incoming freshmen next year. Band is truly exhausting, but I love it so much and wouldn’t choose any other way to spend my free time than with such a great group of students and directors.