By Brian M. Boyce
TERRE HAUTE — Music boomed from the field of Memorial Stadium as musical marchers prepared on the lawn, tuning up for the Regional Marching Band Festival.
Four regional sites throughout Indiana played host to 122 bands Saturday, 30 of which competed at Indiana State University’s outdoor stadium with only 50 chilly degrees between the musicians and their instruments.
Both Terre Haute South and North Vigo High School bands competed on the home field in the 16-team Class A division, earning silver ratings, while 14 battled in the Class C division.
“Well, I think we could have done better,” Patriot Brigade director Jeremy Basso said about 9 p.m. after the ratings were given. “Overall, with the whole season, I’m happy with the way things are going, but we could have done better today and I think the kids agree.”
Indiana State School Music Association ratings run participation, bronze, silver and gold. According to ISSMA officials, the other 14 Class A teams earned gold ratings.
Basso said cold weather hurt his team a bit as they performed “A Day In The Life,” a fast-moving selection of Beatles songs.
“It’s hard to get into a bad mood and listen to that music,” he said.
Avon, Fishers, Lawrence Central, Castle/Newburgh, Columbus North, Center Grove, Ben Davis, Warren Central, Lawrence North, and Brownsburgh High Schools will advance to semi-state.
ISU band freshmen members Kayla Wentz and Amber James escorted teams to and from the field as the 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. all-day event progressed.
“Pretty well,” Wentz, a Plymouth High School band alumnus said. “It’s been cold but fun.”
James, a North Putnam High School graduate said, “it seems to have been running really smoothly.”
Both said despite the chilly weather, fans and participants alike seemed to be having a good time, and they particularly liked watching the competitors warm up.
Brian Boyce can be reached at 812-231-4253 or brian.boyce@tribstar.com.
