The DeKalb County Fighting Tiger Band traveled to Lebanon on Saturday for what should have been their second contest of the season. Their first contest, scheduled to be in Hendersonville on September 19th, was rained out, so the Lebanon Blue Devil Marching Invitational ended up being the first of the season. Band director, Jonathan Wright, said, “It’s good to finally get this first contest under our belt so the new students know what we’re practicing for.”
Saturday started out like most “Band Contest Saturdays”. They gathered at the High School at noon to practice for approximately two hours to work out a few last minute kinks in the show. After a few minor instrument repairs and maintenance procedures, the students were focused and ready to perform.
After the rehearsal, the band loaded the bus and made their way to Lebanon with a long convoy of supporters behind them. Some of the cars were decorated with window paint cheering on the band of their favorite band student. The people that support the DCHS Fighting Tiger Band are among the most passionate around.
As per tradition, the last fifteen minutes or so of the band’s ride on the bus becomes completely silent. The students look straight ahead and focus on what they have to do to get their job done. This tradition was created several years ago by the band students of Mr. Randy Rhody, and has remained in place before every contest performance since.
The Band took the field at 5pm and was determined to give their best performance of the year, and they did not disappoint. “This was by far the best performance of the season,” says Mr. Wright.
During the awards ceremony it was revealed that Hunter Tramel was the 1st place field commander not only in class but in the whole competition, which included big bands and small bands alike. This is the second year in a row that Hunter has achieved this status. The percussion section won first place in class as well.
Mr. Wright is quick to brag on his young band. “Our color guard was one of only two that got a superior rating, and even though there was no recognition or trophy for the accomplishment, they placed second overall in the class. Despite the overall young age of the band they far exceeded expectations. We have great things in store for next week.”
Next week the band will travel to Goodpasture High School for The Cougar Marching Invitational. This is a prelims/finals contest which means the 12 bands that are in the contest will be slimmed down to the top 8, and those bands will perform again for the final placement in the contest.
To find out more about the band log onto www.DekalbBand.com or check them out on FaceBook.
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