While most students are getting ready for the long summer break, the marching band is just beginning its fall season. On June 8, the marching band held their Mini Band Camp. There were around 100 students participating, which included incoming freshmen.

They worked on fundamental marching skills and practicing with and without instruments. They also worked on playing standard pieces including “The Star Spangled Banner,” “the Fight Song,” as well as the show music for the upcoming year. Mini Band Camp gives students a sense of how to practice over the summer and prepares them for the full-length band camp which will be held on August 12-16 and 19-22.

Incoming freshmen were expected to attend, and, for many, it was their first introduction to high school. Mr. Kevin Lloyd also taught the freshmen how to find their drill spots for when they do the show.

“I am most excited to learn so much more from my peers and Mr. Lloyd. I liked getting a taste of what band camp would be like because I know how hard I have to work and how exciting it is,” incoming freshman trumpet player Lauren Hackett said.

There have already been three other regular practices for current band members before camp, which were for drum majors to start practicing.

“My favorite part of mini band camp was meeting all the incoming freshmen. I started off my freshman year prepared to quit band, but the upperclassmen were really great about making me feel welcome so I decided to stay. I want to bring that experience of community to the freshmen,” said trumpet section leader Alyson Zieg-Sniffen