This past Sunday, on Feb. 24, indoor marching band hosted the first competition of the season. Twelve teams from all around the district packed into the gymnasium, ready for a day of roaring music and adrenaline thrills.

Indoor marching band is a continuation of the regular marching band season. However, unlike outdoor marching band, there is more emphasis on the percussion section and less music that must be learned.

What is lacking in quantity, though, is made up in quality. The music is more complex and requires more rigorous practice to master, according to Ariana Morgan, a freshman keyboard player. For several months leading up to the Sunday competition, the indoor marching band attended daily three-hour practices, topping it off with a seven hour session on the Saturday before.

 “It’s tough for the team to get started sometimes, to practice and drill music over and over. It’s very beneficial though,” said Ariana. “We have a good dynamic, so that makes it easier to play well together. It’s crazy, but crazy in a good way.”

Undoubtedly, the ensemble’s hard work and diligence paid off. At the competition, the team amassed the most points, nabbing a close victory over Upper Darby with 74.25 points to 73.75. The marching band was not able to be awarded first place because they’d hosted the event, however. 

Still, the ensemble did not let that rob them of their triumph. When asked what the competition meant for the season, Ariana said that “it gives us an optimistic view going into our season. It was an amazing start, especially for my first year on the team!” 

There is excitement among upperclassmen on the ensemble as well. When comparing the start of this season to past seasons, sophomore Jess Parker, vibe player, said that “it feels a lot better this year. The music was much harder to learn, but it made us feel accomplished.” 

The next competition is March 7th, and the ensemble is once again working hard in preparation.