The Buzz

Fulfilling; a word used by the marching band to describe their competition season. Under the Friday night lights, I’m sure you’ve heard the North Reading Marching Band playing tunes like “Sweet Caroline” and “Shipping Up To Boston”, but the competitive side of the band can be overlooked. 

Every year, the North Reading Marching Hornets compete against other Massachusetts marching bands during a season that starts in late September and this year, ended on November 1st, in Lawrence, with the NESBA finals, where they earned 2nd place, and a score of 91.72. I’m sure half time is typically when you run and get snacks at the shack, but have you ever stopped to watch the band’s performance? Over the span of 2 months, the band works constantly to put together a 7+ minute long themed show, which they compete almost every weekend. They compete in the NESBA (New England Scholastic Band Association) competition circuit, in division 4. Marching band divisions are set by size, 1 being the smallest and 5 being the biggest, making them pretty substantial. This year’s show was titled, “Time is…” and encapsulated the different aspects of time and is separated into 3 sections, time is fixed, time is flexible, and time is fleeting. Every rehearsal, members of the band focus on improving themselves and the show.. For the North Reading Marching Hornets, what really matters during these competitions is going out and performing with friends, and the electric feeling afterwards. The community North Reading Marching Band has built in is remarkable, and is what helps push them to be better each year. 

Senior drum major (student conductor of the band during the show), Calvin Fisher, when asked about marching band stated, “I wish people knew that it is more than just the music. I think the people are definitely what make the band. You know, you can play the best music out there, but have a terrible group of people, and you can, you know, get last in your division every time but have a wonderful group of people, and make memories for a lifetime.” Putting together and competing an extraordinary show like they did is truly a group effort. No matter who they are competing against, the Marching Hornets always stay united, and put dedication into every step. Calvin also added, “I’ve never regretted a day where I’ve done what I loved.” which can apply to everything, not just the band. Like their show states, time is fleeting, and everyday the marching band decides to fill theirs with music, hard work and community, which is truly inspiring.