RHS Marching Spartans – in full-fledged competition
, News reporter
10-02-2009
The Richmond High School Marching Spartan Band is hitting the ground on several turfs this year. For the first time in many years, the band is branching beyond just marching in the parade at Carrollton Band Day, and is seeking new territory in field competition.Under the direction of Jeff Clymore, the band has already participated at MU Band Day, Sept. 19, and Carrollton Band Day, Sept. 26.
At MU Band Day, the Spartan Band appeared on the field with many other high school bands and joined together to play various numbers. The sound was something the students said they will remember.
Carrollton Band Day celebrated its 40th year, welcoming 64 bands competing in their respective divisions, from 1A schools to 6A. Bands had the opportunity to compete in parade, field, drumline, color guard, and other divisions. The winners in the 3A Parade division were: first: Macon, second: Maryville, third: Lexington, fourth: Richmond and fifth: Holden. Richmond and Lexington did not place in field competition. Lexington took third in 3A Auxiliary Division. Eleven schools competed in the 3A division. Lawson competed in parade, field, flag and percussion but did not place this year.
Local 1A schools competed. Braymer took 3rd in 1A Auxiliary Division and 2nd in 1A Open Twirling but did not place in percussion/drumline. Norborne and Stet marched in the parade. Orrick and Polo participated in the 2A division, marching in the parade.
Excelsior Springs marched in the 4A division, and also competed in field, drumline and auxiliary competition.
The RHS band has been working on its field show since summer band, where each individual learned marching basics, terminology, and various maneuvers and patterns involved. Adding all of this while learning and playing the music takes a great deal of concentration, dedication and a constant eye to visual detail and overall sound. Each week the band adds a new component to their show, more polish and gains more experience. The theme for this year is based on The Blues Brothers.
The season is underway. There are numerous marching competitions that start with the beginning of school, and extend through Oct. 31. It may also include special marching competitions in Nov., like the Grand National Championships in Indianapolis, Ind. where bands from across the nation compete. Schools choose the competitions, and how many, they wish to attend.
Richmond will be traveling to the Missouri Band Day Marching Festival in Trenton, Mo., Oct. 17 as its last marching competition this season, but will continue to provide half-time performances for home games at Spartan Stadium.
Photo: The Spartan Marching Band joins other bands on the field at the MU Band Day on Sept. 19. (Photo by Paula Ritchey)
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