With fall coming to an end, the Battlin’ Bear Band has had a successful season. Their show this year, entitled “Lotus,” is an exciting take on the four seasons. With soloists in nearly every movement, this program is filled with talented student musicians.
Last weekend, the band competed in the Area round of competition and placed seventh overall.
The past few years have been quite a transition for the band. With this year being only the second year with Israel Castaneda as the head of the high school band, the students have shown tremendous growth as not only musicians but also as individuals. Through all the difficulties of the season, they have pushed through.
“From students staying after to learn their stuff, to the leadership group stepping up and always keeping things positive, I think that this is a really driven group of kids,” drum major Abby Shelly said.
On Oct. 14, the Bear Band traveled to PNG to compete in the Region 10 marching contest. After an amazing performance, they received ones from all the judges and advanced to Area.
After traveling to Splendora to cheer on the football team, the band then went to Lindale to compete in the prelims of the area contest. After the marching performances, the band was chosen to move on to finals. With only the top ten bands in the area advancing to finals, the band was thrilled with how far they had come. During their final performance they pushed themselves farther than ever before.
“We left our hearts out on the field,” senior band officer Emily Arrowood said. “We wanted to show the judges what we were made of, and we did exactly that.”
Though the band did not advance to state, all the members are happy with their season.
“We gave it our all and that’s what matters,” Arrowood said.
Though competing is part of band, there is so much more to the experience.
“The best part of my season was definitely the bonds I have created with everyone,” Shelly said. “I love being part of the band family.”
The LCM Band has an incredible legacy. Each year, members can pass down traditions and memories to incoming students.
“Seeing students grow through the years and become responsible young adults is more rewarding than anything. I think these are the skills they will take with them after high school,” Castaneda said.
The 2023 band season will be one that will be talked about for years to come.
