While many students are still enjoying the final days of summer break, the halls and practice fields at Thomas Jefferson High School are filled with music as band students prepare for the months ahead.
This marks the unofficial start of the new school year, refining skills, building endurance, and strengthening the teamwork that will carry them through football games, performances and competitions this fall.
For senior Andrea S., the work began before the full band arrived.
“The first week was for leaders,” she said. “We went over the fundamentals so we could teach the members. Things like posture and staying in line all come together to form one big picture. We tell everyone to be very aware of the people around them.”
This school year, Andrea, Anahi L. and Leslie M. spent part of their summer at drum major camp, learning leadership skills and how to teach others.
“It was about connecting with people and learning how to lead the whole band,” Anahi said.
Back at TJ, students begin practice at 7 a.m., spending mornings outside learning drills before rehearsing music in the afternoon. While audiences see the finished product on Friday nights, students know the hours of work behind every performance.
“Some people don’t recognize the dedication that goes into the program,” Anahi said. “But we just keep moving forward.”
Even with the demanding schedule, students say watching the band improve makes every rehearsal worthwhile.
“I’m excited for the football games and halftime shows,” Anahi said. “Each halftime show, we progress a little bit more. It’s awesome seeing the progression as a band. It makes me feel proud.”
The friendships built during those long rehearsals are just as important as the performances.
“We spend so much time together that we form a special bond,” Andrea said. “We’re close to a family.”
As veteran members welcome new musicians, they encourage them to embrace the learning process.
“The best thing they can do is learn from their mistakes,” Andrea said. “It’s easy to mess up, but once you get an idea of what a marching band is like, it gets easier.”
For Anahi, a successful season isn’t measured by trophies.
“Trying our best and having fun doing it,” she said. “That’s success in my eyes.”
