The brass glows under the stadium lights. Flags twirl and fly in the air as the woodwinds dance around, kicking up turf and fake grass. The drum line sets down a deep, steady beat as the crowd screams in excitement. Walking off the field one last time covered in sweat, scrapes and makeup, the Legacy of Bryant cheers as they successfully wow the crowd once again with their first division performance. As the end of the competitive season approaches, students involved in the band reminisce on the outstanding and challenging year they’ve had.
Junior Terry Bobo explains that the competitive season came with its fair share of challenges, including a lack of sleep.
“You’d have to face the fatigue and go to school the next day,” Bobo said. “Certain classes became extremely challenging to pay attention in.”
The competitive season kicks off during October, as many in the band call it Bantober. Each Saturday, students are going head to head in competitions all over the state ranging from Paragould to Lake Hamilton. During the late spring and fall, students involved in the Legacy attend three evening rehearsals a week, Friday night football games, as well as preparing for pep rallies during school.
The band isn’t finished until the beginning of November. Students such as junior Liv Robertson must learn how to balance academics and free time in order to participate in the band.
“In class, I would get behind sometimes, but it was never difficult to catch back up,” Robertson said. “Motivating others is what kept me going.”
It is easy to get caught up in the hustle of the competitive season, as well as letting the fatigue and constructive criticisms catch up to you. Director Jay Chipman believes the bustling period of time requires a mental break at some point.
“I always made sure to take care of myself physically and mentally so that I could be at my best for the band,” Chipman said. “I focused on the positive aspects of our rehearsals and performances as well as reminding myself of all the hard work and dedication the students have put in.”
Chipman also believes in creating the best possible future for his students, whether they pursue a career in music or take on a different field of study.
“My hopes for the kids in Legacy are that they will learn to love music and develop the skills and confidence to pursue their dreams.” Chipman said. “I want them to achieve their full potential both as musicians and individuals.”
As the years fly by, memories of the seasons become sentimental, especially for senior Charlotte Perry.
“Knowing that this is my last season, it is kind of endearing to me and a bit nostalgic.” Perry said. “I feel like I have left my legacy within the band, and there’s nothing more for me to add. I’m proud knowing that this was my last show, and this season was the best way to end off my senior year.”
Many relationships bloom in the band program. Students spend countless hours together performing, rehearsing and perfecting their show. Perry found a home in the band even in her sophomore year, as that is the season that she knew she would continue band throughout high school.
“The first day of summer band my sophomore year was amazing. I walked in and thought I would be looked down upon as an underclassman with no experience.” Perry said. “To my surprise, the people in my section were so supportive and interested in my life. I’ve had friends before, but never like the friends I had in marching band.”
As the season comes to a close, each section says goodbye to their respective seniors this year. Claire Matthews, a sophomore on drumline, remarks on how close her section has bonded this year.
“This year definitely brought me closer to the people in my section. Even as the end of the season approaches, the relationships I made this year within my section felt like one big happy family.”
The Legacy of Bryant brings students together through some extremely grueling times. Each season allows for relationships to blossom and last for many years, and Robertson believes that these friendships are unforgettable.
“I’ve met some of the best people I know through this program, and have made friendships I know will last me for years to come.” Robertson said. “In this program, not only do you bond with people who are passionate about music, but you form friendships that will last a lifetime.”
