As our fighting saints huddled together for a time-out in the midst of a heated match, the band brought their attention away from the game and over to their director. A few moments later, a surge of coordinated notes and melodies burst forth from the band as various rhythms and harmonies from many instruments all combined to form one collective ensemble sound in their performance of a piece intended to boost the morale of both the players and the crowd.

Last year, many of our eighth-grade band students were invited to perform songs with the high school band at a football game that took place in the evening on Wednesday, October 19th. There was a massive turnout of students from both groups, which made for a very special experience as they played exhilarating tunes on the bleachers in front of the field.

“I think the eighth graders coming over and getting involved with the Pep Band just helps them get connected, get involved with the things that we’re doing here at the high school, and gives them an opportunity to see the fun that they can continue to have if they continue on in band,” said David Bechard, the director for our band.

According to Mr. Bechard, it also served as a chance for them to play music that is different from what they were used to. He also said that it helps bring energy and excitement to the sporting events we have here at SFHS.

“Pep band is important because we get the crowds psyched up, we get the team psyched up, and it helps us win games and makes it fun for everyone,” said Michael Werner, the middle school’s band director.

In agreement with the thoughts both directors had on the subject, many eighth-grade band students who attended the game shared that it was a very enjoyable event for them to participate in.

“I liked playing in the Pep Band today with all of the high schoolers and learning new songs,” said Ryan Noreen, an eighth-grade band student.

The high schoolers were great role models for the eighth graders. Many of them took the time to make sure the eighth graders felt welcomed and accepted by getting to know them. Above all else, they chose to be kind and respectful to everyone who attended the game. Their behavior resulted in a very positive experience for the eighth graders. Plenty of other eighth-grade band students, including Emma Sorenson, Chloe Schwab, Lalana Robinson, and Jessami Clarke reported that having the company of both the high schoolers and their peers was part of what made the event so much fun. 

“My favorite thing about conducting the pep band is just the excitement and the energy that it brings, it’s a great style of music and we get to have just a lot of fun both while we’re playing and in between playing; we get to enjoy each other’s company and cheer on our teams,” said Mr. Bechard.