This month’s feature story on Bands of America made me feel nostalgic. Although I was never in marching band (I was a show choir kid, but that’s a story for another column), many of my high school friends were. Each summer, the friends who were not in band would make the drive to DePauw University in Greencastle to watch one of their band camp showcases. I also fondly remember waking up early on crisp fall mornings to travel to competitions to support them throughout the season. 

I always liked the sights and sounds of marching bands. The type-A person in me appreciates the organized, technical routines of everyone moving in their designated patterns. I also knew how much hard work they put into those routines. My friends practiced all summer to get them right. And all that practicing paid off. During my senior year, Edgewood High School made their return to the ISSMA State Finals at the RCA Dome and placed fifth. Edgewood has continued the tradition of State Finals appearances, now at Lucas Oil Stadium, even winning the Class C division in 2022 and 2023. 

Marching band is also special to my family. My mother-in-law was in Indiana University’s Marching Hundred. My husband was in the drumline in high school, which I’m told is the coolest section to be in. Or maybe that’s the low brass section? My sister-in-law also participated in Drum Corps International (DCI) and met her husband there. I guess you could say that I might not have my three nephews without marching band. 

Do you have any sentimental memories of marching band? I would love to hear them.