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WPHS Band has a "King of Pop" season of success |
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Friday, 20 November 2009 |
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By Davida Hill-Beckum
Daily Times Leader
After two months of anticipation, the West Point High School Marching Band was finally able to perform “A Tribute to the King of Pop: Michael Jackson” during the Oct. 17 Region I State Marching Band Festival at Tupelo High School.
“Before the Tupelo competition, competition after competition was being canceled and postponed due to the rain,” said Ricky Brown, WPHS band director. “Our students were overwhelmed with excitement when they finally got to perform.”
WPHS delivered the judges a performance worth the wait. Their tribute to Michael Jackson “wowed” the judges and members of competing bands alike.
“They worked hard on this show,” said Brown. “A lot of times they looked more liked mud wrestlers than a band. They purchased rain coats and boots and kept working.”
The dedication of the WPHS marching band paid off. According to Brown, the group was quiet enough to hear a pin drop before the announcer read off their scores. When the band received all superior ratings and the bomb of Hiroshima's drop would have gone unnoticed.
The drum major, color guard, dance line and drum line all received a score of “1”, which is superior. The overall band received a superior rate as well.
“They were elated,” Brown said. “Crying and hugging each other. I looked at the band members and I was so proud they didn't allow the weather to stop what was meant to be, a season of success.”
The members of WPHS marching band were only allowed to celebrate their success for a day. The following Monday they were hard at work once again, marching in the rain and preparing for the Oct. 31 West Alabama High School Marching Band Competition. The band's hard work was once again rewarded with all superior ratings. The dance line was awarded “Best Overall” in their division.
Members of the WPHS band understand the reason for their success. With the announcement of their scores members of the band say they understood where hard work, dedication and an optimistic outlook will lead.
“The title of band captain came with a great deal of responsibility,” said Alex Hale, WPHS senior, “but the rewards were even greater. Our band produced quality entertainment to residents of West Point and neighboring communities. We would not have been able to accomplish any of this without the support of our families and local businesses.”
Arwakee Henley, WPHS drum major, credits dedication for the success of the band.
“The actions of the West Point High School marching band this season was a story-book example of dedication,” said Henley. “We also remained optimistic. Our positive attitude paid off.”
“These students were driven by passion and motivated by the love of their fans,” Brown said. “Without those components, they would not have reached this level of success.”
Brown is assisted by Ashley DeVould and Darius Fant.
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Last Updated ( Sunday, 22 November 2009 )
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