With competition season now in play, Etowah’s band is making sure it is in tiptop shape. Practicing relentlessly throughout the summer and early weeks of school has paid off. The students, as well as band director Stephen Long, have noticed the improvement in their performance.

“Everyone last season worked really hard, and this season they’ve come in refreshed, recharged, and really getting into the music,” Long said.

After their first performance on October 8th, the excitement for their next competition prepares everyone for shows in the future. With Mr. Long checking up on the smallest details, such as everyone having their toes together and heels in rhythm, they are on a great path to success.
Molly Rushing, senior drum major, talked about the setup of the band’s performance which revolves around the theme of taking flight.

“I’m excited to see how we place because the show this year is extremely intricate, and it goes along with all of the themes of the school year,” Rushing said with a smile.

With the last competitions of the season at their heels, seniors reflect on the memories made throughout the previous years while working hard. Whether it was the excitement of performing or the trips in the band bus, the moments are ones that will be cherished.

“I’m going to miss the friendships and the football games, definitely.” Rushing said.

Seniors are not the only ones who will miss the band. Alumni feel the pain of graduating and leaving band behind, but get to enjoy the old feeling of a performance at Alumni Night every year.

“I miss just hanging out with all my friends before the games, and after the games, and at the games, really. I just miss being with the family,” Grant Price, band alumni, said.