Sara Stadem | Editor
The Tri-Valley Marching Band wrapped up their season at the Menno Band Day Parade on Friday, October 8, in Menno.
Tri-Valley took on Class B, competing against Howard, Armour, Parker, Scotland, McCook Central and Elk-Point Jefferson performing “Grease,” according to Band Director Michael Hoffman.
First and second places were given to each competing class, explained Hoffman, with caption awards given for Best Colorguard, Best Winds, Best Drumline and Best Drum Majors. Caption awards were not class specific which meant any bands competing in the different classes could be awarded one. The competition also had a Sweepstakes Award given to the highest scoring band and a People’s Choice Award. The Tri-Valley Marching Band went home with second place in Class B performance.
When asked how he thought the performance went, Hoffman said, “We were first in the lineup for Class B along with being the first in the entire parade. That normally doesn’t happen for us so it was a new feeling to perform first!” He continued, “Overall, it went well. We dedicated our final performance to those seniors who were marching for the last time.”
Hoffman added, “I could tell there were some nerves throughout the band because with it being the last competitions and we were going first.” He continued, “I told the band that they had a really great opportunity to set the standard for the bands following us. We wanted to make the judges remember us and I think they were able to do just that.”
Despite some challenges, Hoffman was happy with the outcome of the season. Hoffman explained the freshmen and sophomores of his band had not marched before as well as shortened school week resulting in fewer rehearsals were a few of the challenges they faced early on. According to Hoffman, they started with the basics with a lot of the band members and also had to adjust to the new school schedule, figuring out how much they could accomplish in the week.
“Once we had our show together we were able to get some more momentum leading into our competition season that started mid-September. It was great starting out our season with two wins!” Hoffman said. He continued, “It helped boost our confidence as we were heading into some more difficult competitions up against some bigger bands. We ended the season on a high note as well. I’m happy with how my seniors led the band. They did a great job setting the example and helping the younger students throughout the season.”
When recapping the season, Hoffman said one of the highlights was at the Menno competition when they held a drumline battle for any school that wanted to participate. Hoffman explained their Mustang drumline of four students took on the challenge, putting together a drum cadence on their own and competed in the battle.
“They were up against some bigger drumlines, but they held their own and it was awesome to see them out there and as well as our students supporting and cheering them on!” Hoffman said. “They didn’t win the battle, however, I’m extremely proud of how they played and that they took the initiative to do it!”
As for next year, Hoffman is looking forward to designing a new and fun show for his students along with getting to see the students continue their success in marching band.
Hoffman concluded, “I think for a long time, Tri-Valley was somewhat invisible in the world of marching band. After this season, I believe we are now starting to put ourselves on the map and making a name for the Marching Mustangs.”