On October 19, 2024, the RMHS Marching Band and Color Guard hosted their annual home event, a NESBA-sponsored competition, taking home 2nd overall of 19 teams by 0.02 points in a highly competitive Division II competition.
The New England Scholastic Band Association, more commonly known as NESBA, is an organization whose membership includes some of New England’s top color guard, percussion ensembles, and marching bands. For over 40 years, NESBA has offered competition opportunities for fall marching bands. The RMHS Marching Band has been a proud representative and host of NESBA competitions for about 20 years.
The RMHS Band Director, Mr. Mulligan, explained what a unique experience it is for the marching band to be able to host a competition at their home stadium. “It’s not like a sport, where everybody always gets a home game, you know, so we really love having that ability,” he said. Mr. Mulligan also explained that the parents of the marching band have been preparing for this event since the early spring of this year, however, given their several years of experience, they know exactly what needs to be done and how to execute it well. He also shared what a great opportunity it is not just for the band students to volunteer and help raise money for the various band programs RMHS has to offer, but also for returning alumni and parents of these alumni to volunteer and stay involved in the program.
Mr. Mulligan also expressed his gratitude towards these volunteers and all of the other departments and programs involved in helping make the home show possible. He says “I feel really fortunate that there are people that are helping us out and supporting us in the ways that they do.” Mulligan concluded the interview by sharing that this support is greatly appreciated by the members of the marching band as well.
Senior Julia Dillon, a trumpet player for the RMHS marching band, shared her experience as this was her fourth year participating in the home show. She said that in the several weeks leading up to the show they work on perfecting their pieces, not only for the home show but for their finals competition as well that takes place a few short weeks following the home show. They are also given the hours they are needed to volunteer. She says that these practice days are long and tiring but are worth it as they strengthen their performance and lead to a more rewarding outcome at competitions. Dillon further explained how important the home show is in raising money for the band as it is one of their biggest sources of revenue. She also shared how she enjoys performing at a place she is familiar with and likes being able to spend time with her fellow band members. As for the day of the home show, she says, “It definitely is a fun event. It’s a long day but it’s very fun.”
Since the home show the RMHS marching band has improved on their performance and came in first place at their competition in Wakefield by over a point, giving them the encouraging boost they need heading into finals.
