Photo Courtesy of UCFSD

Charlotte Tilley ‘26

STAFF WRITER

With performances from Disney World to the Gator Bowl and beyond, there’s no denying the influence of the Unionville High School Marching Band in bolstering our school’s reputation. The band, led by Mr. Otto and full of hard-working members, is one of the best in the region: in fact, the band scored a bronze medal at US Bands Open Class National Championships in 2023 and is hoping to score even higher this year with its brand-new show.

This year’s show, “What If?,” features music by artists like Cody Fry and Stephen Sondheim. The main visual motif of the show is illusion – a technically difficult effect to execute. However, the band pulls off various illusions professionally and excellently with its use of complicated drills. The band, also known for its props, has blown old shows and competitions out of the water with a central rotating stage and rocking staircases. The color guard carries rifles, sabers, and flags as always, but this year, it’s incorporated floating balls.

Combined with the bright pink uniforms sported by the band this year, the effect of illusion takes shape before one’s eyes.

The band members and the tech crew have worked since July to make this ambitious show a reality, creating an unforgettable experience for all who watch. With its most advanced show, the band has high hopes for the competitive season after kicking it off with 3 division wins and an incredible home show. Band members are excited to begin competing more and displaying their new show.

According to some members, the new show is “next level” and will be “one of our best yet.” Sage Zing has been involved in the program for years and now claims that this “is their favorite show yet” while some newer members say they “are excited to be a part of such a cool show.” Members old and new alike believe this show to be unlike any other. Be sure to support the marching band on November 2 as it heads to this year’s Open Class National Championships at MetLife Stadium!