The members of The Pride Marching Band are tuning their instruments and perfecting their routines as they prepare for the upcoming competitions.
Band director Al Gunsch states that they stay after school at least eight hours a week, and sometimes on Saturdays. Most rehearsals are on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and last up to five hours.
They have a three part musical. Part one is called “Conflict,” part two is called “Conflict and Resolution,” and the last part is called “Soar.” Gunsch states that they are currently working on the third part and hope to play the full musical at the upcoming game.
Gunsch said his goals for the band are to be the best we can possibly be with the group we have, and to improve with every performance.
Many band members hope to get to state competitions, such as senior Katelyn Nelson. Nelson is the wind captain of the band.
“I hope we get better, get superior ratings, and go to state competitions,” Nelson said.
Band is said to be complicated but very rewarding, and can create a very close friend group. A lot of band members say their favorite thing about the band is the people, such as freshman Preston Davidson.
“The people, my besties are my favorite part about band” Davidson said.
Their first competition is Oct. 5, at Gautier High School for the annual Swamp Classic. On Oct. 12, they will complete state evaluations in Gulfport in hopes of qualifying for the State Championship on Oct.26 in Pearl, Miss.
