On Saturday, September 20, the AHS marching band competed at Chestatee High. They won many awards and continue to build the legacy of Armuchee High. One main contribution to the marching band is the leadership team. Our leadership team has done a lot for our band and will continue to be great. But for the band director to pick the best team, he has to take many steps.
Starting in July, a camp teaches leadership candidates how to be the best leader possible. Then they show those skills during band camp with every marcher to show the instructor what they know and have learned. Benjamin Cranford, Senior, said, “Band camp is really when your leadership responsibilities start to kick in to get to lead.” Once band camp is over, our marching band instructor chooses the leadership team. He chooses the candidates that show the most leadership skills and never give up. Mr Bates, the Band Instructor, said, “I choose what I think are the people that will be the best.”
Being a part of the leadership team can teach life skills such as discipline, communication, and the ability to take initiative. Communication is crucial when keeping the other band members focused and determined by motivating them to remember they are all a team. Emalee Collins, senior, said, “We’re all here for the purpose of becoming better musicians and becoming better people.” This motivation keeps the band members solid and determined.
Every day the leadership team works hard to be better leaders for the marching band. They are building strong friendships with other members, taking constructive criticism, and setting goals for themselves to be better. Many of the members believe that having self-confidence is an important goal to set. Olivia Taft, Junior, said, “My goal is to be more confident in myself as a leader.” Olivia has been a leader for many years. Every year she continues to build friendships with others and take constructive criticism from others to build up her self-confidence and be a better leader.
Our marching band leadership is essential and is a beneficial experience. The AHS marching band is very grateful for the leadership team and appreciates all they do for our band. Every year the leadership is more impactful. Hopefully, this impact will make the band stronger throughout the years.
