Burton's Band nervously awaiting competition

On Saturday, October 1st, the John I. Burton Marching Band will be competing in their first competition of the season. The Lonesome Pine Competition will be held at Central's football stadium, and the Raiders will be taking the field at approximately 2:50 p.m. This competition, according to the band director, Ms. Butler, is anticipated to go well. She stated, "The rookies (new members of the band) have not been panicked; they have really stepped up their game, and the music now sounds better." Candice C., co-captain of the color guard at Burton, admitted that she has some concerns for the upcoming competition but is confident the performance will go well.


Burton's Band will be competing against Hampton High school, in the division 2A. Schools are placed into certain divisions based on the number of wind instruments, any instrument that requires air to be blown into it, and percussion players that are competing in the band. This will be the first time in two years this competition will be taking place, due to weather issues occurring the past two years. Ben H., drum major of Burton's band for two years, claims that after winning first place in his last competition, that he is nervous but also excited for Saturday's event.

Several members of the band agree that they have all been properly prepared for this competition. Eden W., member of the marching band for three years, declared that she "helped younger members of the band with their music technique". Ben H., stated that he "practiced at home and during band rehearsals." Many returning members of the John I. Burton marching band admit that performing is not as easy as it looks: it takes a lot of practice and something could go wrong with just one incorrect movement.

Be sure to come out and support the John I. Burton marching band on Saturday, October 1st at Central High School for a day full of music and entertainment!

Written by: Haley Q.