On November 4th, the Marriotts Ridge Marching Band secured their title as Group 5A National Champions in Pennsylvania. In addition to getting a higher score than both class 4A and 5A bands, Marriotts Ridge outperformed their own previous performances twice, setting a new highest score achieved in both state and national competitions.
Leading up to the event, Marriotts Ridge competed against 23 bands from both Maryland and Virginia. In class 5A, Marriotts Ridge produced the highest score at states with a whopping 94.600, which was not only a new record for the school, but also granted eligibility for the Ridge to progress to the US Bands National Championships being held at J. Birney Crum Stadium in Allentown, Pennsylvania.
Following the performance, Marriotts Ridge was crowned first place with an overwhelming score of 94.900 and returned as the Group 5A victors. Many of those in the band credit the hard work and dedication they put into their craft at each and every rehearsal.
“We will go out in the rain for hours. Working and pushing through, that’s why we won- because we worked so hard and put in so much effort and dedication,” senior Madison Gaither expressed.
The road to victory was paved by team chemistry and the band’s dedication to the art of music. The path to the national title was not only a story about a victorious season, but also a legacy that will inspire future classes to reach for the stars. As various members of the band look back at their incredible performance, many of them mention the incredible and overwhelming sense of achievement they felt during their victory.
“It was very nerve-wracking, but very fun. Every time a school was called, we all knew we were just one step closer to victory,” senior and tuba player Clark Steinbaugh explained.
Reminiscing, many members attributed their success to the strong bonds they formed within the band allowing them to grow as musicians and individuals.
“I’ve grown a lot because of the people I’ve met, and it’s been a really positive influence on me. I’d be a completely different person if I didn’t decide to take a chance on this and try something new,” senior Sam Vergis shared.
The recognition of such a triumphant victory didn’t go unnoticed by friends and loved ones as many reached out with profound comments regarding the success of their peers.
“I was extremely proud of her, she has been working so hard and has put so much time into color guard, and I’m so glad all of her hard work has paid off,” senior Morgan Gaither said regarding her sister’s victory.
The success of the Marriotts Ridge band this season is not just an accolade, but a testament to the unity, perseverance and mutual support that defined their journey. This victory, celebrated as both a crowning achievement and heartfelt testament to growth, stands as a reminder that dedication and teamwork forge not just champions, but memories that can potentially last a lifetime. The band’s legacy of resilience and excellence will echo through the corridors of the band room inspiring future members of the marching band.