The UC High Marching Band, a powerhouse of precision and rhythm, transforms the football stadium into a stage. Composed of over thirty musicians, the UC High Marching Band blends woodwinds, brass, and percussion into a unified force of sound and motion.
New Music Director Tyler Johnson has taken over for Director Brandon Rhinehart, who decided on a change of career, and is leading the squad to success only a couple months into the season. Whether it be on the home football field during halftime, or away at a local competition, Johnson has already shown his excellent directing abilities with his years of teaching experience as well as being a part of a professional level drum core.
“As a new teacher here at UC, my experience has been positive. I enjoy meeting staff and students; everyone is very welcoming,” said Johnson.
He also mentioned that he enjoys teaching students music, especially because he participated in band in high school. “I was in the district honor band in high school and the conductor was the music instructor at SDSU. I really enjoyed working with him, so it inspired me to want to become a teacher myself,” said Johnson.
Junior Zana Schreier, who has been in band for three years here at UC, said that she loves being a part of the UC High Marching Band because of the connections she has made along the way. “My favorite aspect would have to be the community. I’ve met the best people and my closest friends through band. Without this program, I would have never met the people I love the most,” said Schreier. Schreier plays the tenor drums, and said she loves how different it is compared to all the other instruments; the tones of the drums is what she likes the most.
Sophomore Jackson Moffatt, who is currently in his first year of Marching Band, said he enjoys being the sole musician who plays the bass guitar in the band. Moffatt also shared how being in band is a unique experience and has created new friendships and bonds with his peers. “Band gave me plenty of new friendships which made it a whole lot easier to do with my new friends. Band can be fun if you have the time and commitment for it,” said Moffatt.
Sophomore Max Macauley, who plays the trumpet in the band, also agrees about the welcoming experience band has to offer. “The teamwork and camaraderie are what makes band so great. The energy is always great, and being able to participate in such a collaborative activity with my friends is awesome,” said Macauley.
Not only are the connections they make in the program notable for many people involved in band, performing at both football games and competitions are exciting features of the program. “The energy between performing at games and competitions differs greatly. At games, it almost feels like a party. But at competitions, it’s more serious while still being fun. The adrenaline is wild, and holding your breath waiting for scores is nerve wracking,” said Macauley.
There are many aspects of band that make the program not only enjoyable, but a memorable experience. Whether it being the adrenaline of performing in front of an audience, or the team bonding with your peers, the UC High Marching Band has become a crucial program at UC High and an unforgettable experience for students involved.