On September 12, 2025, the 7th and 8th-grade bands joined the high school marching tornadoes for one song and dance number, and that made me think of when I was in their shoes. It wasn’t long ago when I was on that field dreaming of the day I got to wear the uniform. This moment was when I knew that marching band was the thing for me, and I hope others can feel that too. Honestly, I believe the 7th and 8th grade bands are full of inspiring minds and really devoted people, and I hope to see them all out on the field and in their uniforms one day.
On the Monday before our halftime performance, we all got the opportunity to practice with the 7th and 8th graders. I personally believe that the practice went well, and they do learn quickly, which is always nice. We got to meet every middle schooler in our section, and it was just a fun experience overall. I am so glad anyone of any background can be bonded by a love for music. We ran our performance a few times, and I am extremely proud of each and every one of them for remembering their music. I know that sometimes it’s difficult to memorize things; however, the middle schoolers made it look as if there was no challenge whatsoever. Their hard work and effort really paid off in the long run, and honestly, we sounded so great.
Once we got through the rest of the week, I will tell you I was so excited for Friday. As soon as I got to the stadium after the death march, I was just waiting for halftime. Once we were done with pregame and got into the stands, I watched the middle schoolers from my seat, and they were really into the game. They made the experience more fun and more active with their participation and their attention. I appreciate that they participated after every first down and every exciting moment. I hope they all enjoyed the stands as much as I did.
Then came halftime, which was absolutely amazing. The hard work on that Monday night and the days following up to it really paid off in the end. The middle schoolers really rocked the field. Honestly, if each and every one of those young musicians joined the band in high school, our band would be the best band in all of the county. I am insanely impressed with these young musicians’ work effort and skills.
Once I was free to roam around in the third quarter, I noticed that all of the middle schoolers I saw had a smile on their faces and an obvious look of pride in their eyes, and to be honest, it was absolutely deserved. Everyone who contributes to the Dover Band program should be proud of their young musicians and future marching band members. I know I am. To conclude, I am very proud of every single one of these middle schoolers, and I can’t wait to march with them one day.
