On Saturday, October 10^th, the mighty Ranger band competed against 18 other outstanding bands in the PESH band competition.  The day was so cold and overcast that there were many with doubts that the competition would be completed.  However, many (so many) parents with the band kids toughed out the weather and enjoyed a day of marching extravaganza.  There were 2A, 3A, 4A, and 5A bands in the competition.  The competition was very tough but the Naaman Ranger band was successful in making it to the top 10 in the Open Competition.  Many trophies were handed out to some awesome bands and we (the Naaman parents) loudly applauded our crew who stuck it out ALL day to present their show twice in front of a packed and cheering crowd.  Even the light drizzle did not slow down the competition.

            This competition was just the preliminary for the Naaman Forest Band.  It gives the band a great opportunity to perform in front of a crowd and group of judges.  This exercise was great preparation for the UIL Marching competition scheduled in Mesquite on October 21^st.  The new Freshmen got their first exposure to the pressure that can be felt being watched and judged on your marching and playing abilities.  The feeling among all the band members was so different from the football half time show performances.  This time people are actually watching what they did on the field.  Each member of the bands tried to stay focused on his or her job to be the very best that they could be.  The nerves were held in check by the band showing their team comradely.  Each ‘seasoned’ member made a point to speak a word or two of encouragement to the under classmen.  It warmed my heart to hear their voices whispering to each other as they passed through the tunnel to take their place on the field.  One last reminder to be aware of your place in the line to ensure that each diagonal and vertical line is as straight as possible.  You could see the attention to detail and focus on each young face.  As they move through each movement, they could hear the folks in the stands cheer them on to do their best.  We as the parents of so many band members were applauding and cheering for every band.  We all know how much hard work and sacrifice has made it possible for these kids to put together a mere 7-minute show.  These are the great moments – win or lose – that the band kids will remember forever.