Threatened all day by non-stop deluges, skies cleared over Marathon High School just in time for Monroe County’s three marching bands to gather on Nov. 2 for the District 30 Music Performance Assessment.
The evening marked the first time in years that the Key West Marching Conchs could stay in Monroe County to learn their scores, awarded on a scale of 1 (superior) to 5. Presenting a ’90s-themed show with more than 100 musicians led by director Gary Hernandez, the southernmost high school set the tone for two growing programs at Marathon and Coral Shores.
“We did this performance last year, but for comments only,” said Marathon director Paul Anderson, whose band presented a patriotic “Tribute to America.” “This is the first time we’ve marched in at least seven years for ratings, and it may have been longer than that.”
Traveling down from the Upper Keys, the Hurricanes recreated the high seas for a “Pirates of the Caribbean”-themed show under director Robert Sax.
In addition to the crowd, school officials in attendance included Superintendent Ed Tierney, Deputy Superintendent Amber Acevedo, MHS Principal Christine Paul and Key West Principal Rebecca Palomino.
“Our talented musicians delivered an incredible evening of entertainment and school pride,” district officials said in a press release. “The enthusiastic crowd showed its appreciation for each outstanding performance, creating a wonderful atmosphere of support for our students and music programs.”
“I couldn’t be more proud of the kids,” said Anderson, whose band marched its complete show for just the second time after a first run-through the previous Friday. “They’ve worked hard and gotten a real taste of what marching band is, so they’ll be willing to work even harder next year.”
Photos by TRACY McDONALD/Keys Weekly
