Distinguished Drum Majors Sound of Suwannee honored
Submitted
The Suwannee High School Sound of Suwannee Marching Band Drum Majors, Stephanie Adams, Audre Bryant and Mike Yarick, earned the rating of Distinguished Drum Majors at the Central Florida Marching Arts Invitational Competition on Saturday, Oct. 5.
The competition was held at Leesburg High School and was sanctioned by the Florida Marching Band Coalition (FMBC). According to FMBC, the Distinguished rating is described as: “always brilliant, uniform, and consistent (FMBC, 2013).” The ranking of scores is as follows: Apprentice, Proficient, Superior, Distinguished (FMBC, 2013).
Additionally, the band earned second place in their class, as well as, outscoring several bands in a larger size class. The band’s competition show is based on a children’s book entitled, “The Composer is Dead” by Lemony Snickett. The show was arranged and designed by Andy Hursey. The story is a comedic murder mystery where an inspector investigates the band and uses musical jokes and puns along the way.
Band Director Stacey Gindlesperger, expresses: “I am more than proud of the Drum Majors. They are not only exceptional musicians, but they are also admirable students with strong character and positive leadership skills.”
When asked what it feels like to perform with the band, senior band member Bryson Zasada states: “You have your instrument in your hand and the field below you. Your heat pounds and you’re all alone. You forget where you are as you look at the crowd. You’re excited but scared out of your mind. Then the whistle blows. You play your first note and it’s exhilarating! For 10 minutes you’re the center of the world. I wouldn’t give it up for the world.”
Senior Drum Major Stephanie Adams states: “When I step on the podium, there is this mental checklist that my mind has to put into play. When all of that is officially check off, it’s game time and at that point, I’m ready to be the best that I can possibly be. Not just for me, but for all the faces looking back at me for that down beat.”
The band’s next chance to compete and qualify for the FMBC State Championships is Saturday, Oct. 19 at Nease High School. If you would like to help support the band through supply or monetary donations, please contact the director at 386-647-4013. As always, your support as audience members is greatly and deeply appreciated.