“Remember that time at band camp?”- What it means to be a “Bandie”
“Band-Ten-Hut!”
“KNIGHTS!” A deafening silence falls over all 240 students who anxiously wait to perform their halftime show for a rowdy Friday night crowd. From the outside looking in, it is hard to imagine that three months of work and preparation is being showcased in a mere seven and a half minutes. The term “Bandie” is commonly defined as a nerd or geek who plays an instrument in the school’s music program and constantly complains about the football team’s losing streak. However, being a part of marching band is much more than simply creating noise and running around a field. A “Bandie” is an individual who values teamwork, dedication, and understands the importance of friendship.
Funky beats and catchy tunes at a football game can have the crowd on…show more content… During the school year, members must balance daily afternoon rehearsals, late football games, and weekend competitions with the school work they must finish. Passing grades are necessary to maintain eligibility to perform at competitions and attend football games. With little time to simply rest, band members must use their time-management skills to ensure each task is completed. Moreover, being a “Bandie” means one is hardworking, responsible and committed to the music program and those in it.
When school or even life becomes difficult, it is important to have a support system to fall back on. For many students, that support system is built within the friendships they have formed in band. Every individual plays a crucial part in the program; as many band directors say, “We are only as strong as our weakest member.” That quote applies not only to the physical health of each member, but to the emotional health as well. Through good times and bad, every band member know that they will always have a place where they can feel accepted and loved. To be a “Bandie” is to also be a
