This weekend, the Harrisonburg High School Marching Band traveled to Millbrook High School to compete in the double A division. This competition included an exhibition in which the bands would perform their show and then be given comments by a judge. These performances did not count for any particular score, but were available to give the band and its directors feedback on the general performance of their show, and tips on how to improve marching, playing, etc.

After all the exhibitions were completed, Millbrook’s director made the decision to move the bands into the gym, as the forecast was calling for a downpour, and lightning is always a concern. This changed the scoring slightly because the bands were unable to march, so the visual judge was cut out of the performance total. The bands stood in concert arcs, with the color guard behind them doing their work without movement as well.

This change, however, did not affect the Marching Blue Streaks for they put on an award winning show. Placing first in their division, they were also only .4 points away from first place overall. They tied for the best music award and the color guard placed first in their class.

Ian Richard, the head band director, expressed his satisfaction after the performance.

“I’m very proud of our performance at the Millbrook Pre-Festival Marching Competition this past weekend. After working so hard during band camp and our regular season rehearsals, it’s great to know that our hard work paid off.”