On Sunday, Dec. 1, 2013, the Bel Air High School Marching Band showed their Christmas spirit in the 24th annual Bel Air Christmas Parade.
The Bobcats were the first of several bands to perform in the parade. Bel Air had participated in the parade for several years and always put forward their best effort into spreading the holiday spirit. Every member of the band program at Bel Air marched in the parade, which created a need for rehearsals outside of the normal class time. For many freshmen, it was their first experience in Marching Band.
Junior Evan Katsu commented on the benefits of freshmen partaking in the parade, “This benefits the freshmen because we don’t have to teach them basic [marching moves], like how to roll step, when we do the field show.”
Unlike most marching bands, the Bobcats performed an original piece. Band director Mr. Domenico arranged a mix of the Bobcat’s fight song and the ever popular Jingle Bells. It was a refreshing twist to the traditional Christmas songs.
For many, the Christmas Parade is the only exposure the community gets of the Marching Band. The half time show is a different experience than a parade. Though the parade does not contain movements like the half time show does, a considerable amount of effort is still needed to put on a good performance.
“A lot of people don’t get to see us actually march other than this event and the Fourth of July parade, so this really gets us out there,” said senior and field commander Cleo Rolocut.
The parade usually gets a large and positive response from the community. The parade is certainly a rewarding experience for all, as the students get to show the community what they have been working on. Because the band program asks for donations and support throughout the year at concerts and other events it is a great opportunity to thank the community for their support.
“I think the coolest thing about this parade and some of the parades we’ve done in Disney is you see these little kids on the parade route and they go crazy when they see the Marching Band go by. And a lot of those little kids are going to remember that when they play an instrument later,” said band director Mr. Domenico.
The parade was followed by music, carols, bonfires, hot chocolate, cookies, and tree and menorah lightings in Shamrock Park. Come support the band and the rest of the music program in their winter concerts starting the week of Dec. 16.