BBN Band Correspondent Melanie Avalos provides a glimpse into the Piper Band of Pride's most recent competition at the annual Battle of the Bands competition held at the Amway Center in Orlando.
Melanie Avalos
February 26, 2022
On November 18, 2022, the Piper High School Band of Pride set off to perform at the Florida Blue Battle of the Bands, an event where 10 top high school marching bands are chosen to perform and show off their high-stepping drum majors, their drumlines, and of course, the band. With help from Piper’s band director, Mr. Jackson, the Piper High School band was able to put on a show-stopping performance. For many of the band members, it was their first time going, me included. Being able to be part of band has given me many experiences that I never thought I would be able to experience so far in my two years if being in band.
Courtesy: Showtime Web
Not only have I been able to experience events such as the Florida Classic, but I have also learned a lot about the value of being in the band how it has expanded into my everyday life. It has taught me how to manage my time. There is no doubt that band is a time-consuming after- school activity in which many participate in. I have learned to manage going to rehearsals while also cramming in homework that is due the next day. There are some days where it becomes stressful, but I always find a way to get through those hard days. Band is not only something to be in for a social experience, but it also teaches the importance of how hard work can really make a difference. The band members put hard work into learning their music and parts on their instrument, while they also put that same work into school and things that they enjoy outside of school.
So far, we have been able to perform and get straight superiors at our Marching MPA (FBA MPA) back in October, an accomplishment that we are proud of. But the hard work does not just stop there. We have also had many performances already throughout 2023 and we try to step it up every time. Right now, the symphonic band is working hard, practicing for our Concert MPA which is just around the corner. While there are many obstacles throughout the way, we always find a way to get through them and right now, we are aiming for superiors again at MPA through our hard work and dedication.
