As the holidays draw closer, so does the national marching band competition. Bands across the country gather in Atlanta to compete in the last competition of the season, Bands of America, also known as BOA, where the Palm Harbor University High School Band has competed twice in the past four years. The theme this year is magic, putting the main focus on the Sorcerer’s Apprentice.

All members are working vigorously to prepare for BOA coming up this late October. The band practices every Monday, Thursday, and Friday. These practices last anywhere from three to five hours. Weekly sectional practice is mandatory, as it is music practice specifically set for each section. The entire band practices on drill and improving marching.

Drill, for those who don’t know, is the placement of each band student on the field. The drill changes with the music, resulting in the fluid movement of members on the field.

The first movement is the opener, followed by “Wand.” “Pure Imagination” is next from the classic movie Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The last piece is called “Hat,” which closes the show.

“[The music] reminds me of my childhood,” Jenna Stannard, a member of the guard, said.

The colourguard is directed by both Allie Davison and Betsy Coss. They work hard to design flag and weapon movements, while also choreographing dance to the band’s music. The costumes for colourguard are new this year. The costumes are a bit tight, but “go well with the music,” Stannard said. They are black, white, and silver with long black pants and a sheer black arm, finished off with a tall black collar.

Ian Weborg, the marching instructor, helps the band with marching techniques. Drill is created by Greg Urban. The brass and percussion sections are led by Chris Touchton and Fofie Panagiotouros. The pit is directed by Chris Coss, and the drumline is directed by Brian Millan.

Football games are the places to see the band and guard perform and progress.  The work the instructors and the band put into practices are crucial to the outcome of their performances. Next time you come across a band member, make sure to compliment them on their hard work and perseverance through the heat of the practices.