Season ends on high note after Royal Field Tournament in Simi Valley on Nov.8
By: Mia Ortega
The Mighty Eagles Marching Band have had a busy, competitive season.
The team recently competed at the Royal Field Tournament in Simi Valley. The band finished in third place.
The season highlight was at the College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita. At the Rampage Field Tournament, the Marshall drumline performed their cadences behind the COC “Hart Regiment” drumline.
Another highlight was on Nov.7 when Marshall got to perform with all of the other PUSD high schools in a district showcase.
Tonight, the marching band will perform for the final time at Pasadena High School for “Friends and Farewell” at 6:30 p.m.
At Baldwin Park High School on Oct.18, the squad finished in first place out of seven high schools. Other schools competing on that day include Pasadena High and Monrovia High.
The Mighty Eagles Marching Band competed in their very first competition of the season in Downey on Oct.4. After months of hard work, the Eagles were well prepared to show off their music, their drill, and their spirit.
Behind the polished uniforms and powerful sound, the band had been practicing for hours every week, perfecting every step and note. For many students, being part of the marching band is about more than competition, it’s about friendship, leadership, and sharing music with an audience.
Even though being in band takes discipline, the excitement of performance keeps spirits high.
“The responsibilities can be stressful, but performing makes it worth it,” said junior Santiago Smith-Ruiz, the assistant drum major.
Senior Arson Lazaretto, battery (drumline) captain, added that leadership brings challenges, but also rewards.
“Being section leader can be extremely stressful, but the compassion and care in my section makes everything better,” she said.
Band director James Pappalardo shared that his favorite part of the job isn’t just about winning awards. He believes that growth is more important than results.
“My favorite part of conducting is watching the show and music go from nothing into something, as well as watching the kids grow and play music with passion,” Pappalardo said.