HEREABOUTS lynn minneman
When I hear the percussion play a cadence, I cannot help but smile. Wonderful memories of being a “bandie” (really a “drillie” — back “in the day” in what was known at that time as the “kickline”).
Those thoughts rush into my mind and the adrenaline flows. If you have those same, or similar, thoughts — hold on to your hats because the Northmont Marching Band will present its 43rd annual Festival of Bands on Saturday, Sept. 5, when nine marching bands will present their 2009 shows.
The program will begin at 7 p.m. and during the course of the evening marching bands will take the turf at Good Samaritan Stadium at Northmont High School in Clayton.
Area high school bands performing in this year’s band premier include: Carlisle, Carroll, Brookville, Marion Local, Miamisburg, Beavercreek, Bellbrook, Centerville and, of course, the local favorite Northmont.
“In all, over 1,000 instrumentalists and guard members will take the field in exhibition,” said Kim Marvin, co-chair of Northmont Festival of Bands.
“The Northmont Festival of Bands has a long-standing history in this community.”
In 1966, the renown band director, Dick Cool, began this noncompetitive event to showcase area bands, Marvin said. I was lucky enough to participate, and got to know the man (circa Northmont 1974-76) and he is dearly missed.
“Cool’s goal was to be the earliest show in the state of Ohio — this tradition continues today.”
Marvin said the bands during the 1960s were referred to as “Drum Corps.”
“Each school would march down the track in front of the stands for a pass and review.”
Marvin said as band competitions have evolved, bands have moved from marching in front of the stands to a full show on the field with different movements, solo selections and color guard features including flags, sabers and props.
Even though this event continues to be noncompetitive, a panel of five judges will critique each band on several different aspects: visual, music, marching and maneuvering.
Tickets for this event can be purchased at the gate the night of the performance; $7 general admission, $8 reserved seating, or individuals may purchase tickets in advance by contacting Myra Fincher at (937) 248-4843.
Contact this columnist at (937) 609-4152 or newscommunity@hotmail.com.
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