The 2014 marching band season is coming to an end in early October and this season has been the best in a while. Their season starts in June, where they prep for parades and the State Fair Band day. They put weeks and weeks of effort into sounding and looking good. They participate in many events such as The State Fair Band Day, all of the home football games, Lafayette Jefferson’s Star City marching band competition, Purdue Band Day, and the Harrison Festival.

A new feature this year is the addition of the color guard. This has made an improvement in their performances and also has expanded the band as a whole. Color guard is to add a visual element to the music. Senior Jessica Brown, captain of the color guard, said, “The color guard has added a level of expression for the music. The color guard has had a small beginning, but people will see what the color guard is about and that will get more people in for our marching band and winter guard season.” Senior band member Jared Lafond also said, “The color guard has been a great addition since we haven’t had one in four years.” Band director Mr. Dennison said, “We have plans to keep it going over the winter time, and hopefully that will help our group for next year.

Jared LaFond has been a part of the band for many years. “This season has been very successful because everyone has gotten along and that’s a big part of the teamwork aspect for marching band. Our marching band is improving. The next couple of years I expect more kids to join because of our great teamwork. We won’t be the small band from Delphi anymore. We’ll be the big band from Delphi.”

Mr. Dennison is happy with the changes, too. “ I am very pleased with how many 8th graders are participating.  Hopefully, they all have a great time and want to be a part of it next year. I am very pleased with this season of marching band.  The members seemed to be enthused and focused on what we do.  I am very impressed with the commitment in the group. This has been a special group of people and I hope all that are involved this year feel proud of what they have accomplished.”

The marching band season concludes at the Harrison Festival on Oct. 18.