Comments on: Many factors play into band director’s music choices

By: Amazon

Amazon — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 18:14:16 +0000

It's a different world that when I was in band a couple of decades ago. We made formations and worked in "hot dogs" and "peanuts" (marching band terms from yesteryear). We didn't move freeform all over the field to accomplish the same task but we worked just as hard. I'm impressed with the drive and ambition today's band students possess. It shows they have respect for their leaders which will carry through with them throughout their lives. I'm sure this extends to all areas of the arts (orchestra, theatre, etc.) Long live the arts!!!

By: davesc

davesc — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:32:31 +0000

There was a time when the marching bands prepared a brand new show for each home game. Now *that* was work and a great learning experience. Taking 4 months to prepare one short show? Piece of cake!

By: NWSider

NWSider — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:12:12 +0000

Thank you for the article. That is not the point of my comment. As is so often with the Gazette articles, my beef isn't with the article it is with the commenter. I want to know how "They put in more Hours and effort than any other artform". Most of the area show choirs have been in rehearsal since july, and won't be done until April or May. Orchestras put in hours upon hours of preparation with no competitions. The thespians will do several productions per year. This is not to disparage the bands, but rather to raise all of the performing arts.

By: SKayBT

SKayBT — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 15:15:10 +0000

Agreed!! These students are tremendous ambassadors for their schools and the area and their talent is always amazing. You won't be disappointed with the "show"! And remember to support ALL the students at a sports event, not just the ones on the field.

By: BandFan621

BandFan621 — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 11:04:02 +0000

Please attend this weekends competitions and support all the schools. Bear in mind the "marching Band" students start practicing as early as July (percussion) and stay with it thru late October. They put in more Hours and effort than any other artform and get less HOURS of competition for it. However the thousands of spectators that watch them in the next few weeks will be pleased. Linn mar-marion High School- and CR Prairie all have shows this weekend. Enjoy!