Big finish to marching band season for Andy, Chris

Marching Band season wrapped up in recent weeks, with Andy completing his senior year of performing with the Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School Raiders band and Chris finishing his junior year with the Hilliard-Darby High School Pathers band.


The Raiders won the New Jersey State Championship in their large-band category, then placed third at the USSBA's "national" competition (which included bands from a few states) at MetLife Stadium on Nov. 9. At that event, SPFHS also won the coveted Cadets Award of Excellence. Here's a good action photo from that final competition, taken by another band parent from the stands.


A few weeks earlier, senior members of the band and their parents were honored in a pre-game ceremony on the SPFHS football field.



The Darby band also had a highly successful season.

At various competitions the Panthers earned numerous trophies, including Best Music, Drumline and Color Guard as well as Grand Champion. They finished up with a Superior rating at the State Marching Band finals for the 16th consecutive year.

Chris at top, center

Cathy writes: "We just concluded our season with our annual awards ceremony recognizing everyone's success, especially the seniors who were presented with their plumes. I expect to need many tissues for next year's ceremony!"