Autumn Pleasures

What epitomizes Autumn more than a chill in the air, sweaters, changing landscapes, and football? The High School Marching Band season of course! Throughout the country, marchers follow a schedule to rival any high school sports franchise. Starting in early August, they brave the heat, sacrifice free time and practice intricate footwork, all the while playing harmonious, stirring musical compositions.

These preparations culminate in school football game rallies and local and regional competitions. As musical scores set the mood for motion pictures, marching bands enhance the spectators’ experience during the games, exalting successes and lamenting disappointments. Competitions are abuzz with activity, ranging from smaller festival style events to full-fledged tournaments held at professional stadiums.

Experience The Thrill

Upon entering the stadium, the arena is awash with the glow of high beam flood lights. Throngs of fans crowd the bleachers, eager for the performance to start. The savory aroma of culinary delights float through the air. The excitement mounts while Marchers, resplendent in their colorful attire, file onto the field in neat uniformed rows. Accompanied by the cadence of the drum line, the band fans out. A hush of anticipation settles over the audience as the drum major sets the beat and instruments snap to the ready …

Let the rhythm take you away as breathtaking performances get your blood pumping and your feet stomping. The roar of the crowd, the thrill of the step work, the fanfare, the magnificent uniforms and flourishing color guard will knock your socks off – so bring an extra pair!

Enjoy all the pomp and circumstance of a marching band competition right here in your own backyard! The 4th Annual Roxbury Marching Band Classic, an unaffiliated, independently run competition, is scheduled for Saturday, October 6th with a 7 PM performance start time. The event will take place at the Roxbury High School, One Bryant Drive, Succasunna, NJ 07876.  For more information, please email roxburymbclassic2012@gmail.com.

The Roxbury High School Band Parents Association (RHSBPA) organizes, runs and hosts this spectacular occasion. The success of the Roxbury Marching Band Classic is dependent on parent involvement. While the Directors represent the heart and soul of the Marching Band and the Marchers its force, parent volunteers function as its backbone. It is through the support, dedication and tireless efforts of so many parents that has made this competition such a success in the past. This year will prove equally successful. The entire Marching Band “community” strives to provide a welcoming, enjoyable and exciting experience for participating bands and spectators alike.

The contest features an esteemed panel of nationally recognized, expert adjudicators from around the Country. The presentation of awards concludes the competition, including the newly instituted People’s Choice Award, giving fans a chance to vote for their favorite marching band!

Amenities include indoor rest rooms and ample parking with convenient handicap spaces. A large, well-staffed concession area selling food, snacks, and beverages offer attendees an array of edibles. A detailed Rain Contingency Plan is in place in the chance of inclement weather.

Comfortable wrist bands, to be worn by spectators at all times during the event, will be available for purchase at the gate. Prices are as follows — Adults $10; Senior Citizens & Students (with school ID) $8; Children 4 years old and younger FREE.

Participating Schools

Bernards Township

Hackettstown

Montgomery

Mt. Olive Township

North Penn

Roxbury (Exhibition Performance)

Sparta

West Orange

At the Heart of Roxbury

Conveniently located to Routes 80, 46, 10 and 206, Roxbury is home to several family-friendly parks and playgrounds, a variety of shopping options, and a great town library. In addition, on the shores of picturesque Horseshoe Lake, the Roxbury Performing Arts Center (RoxPAC), administered by The Roxbury Arts Alliance, houses The Investors Bank Theatre which presents a variety of quality musical, theatrical and artistic performances.

Situated in the middle of Morris County, Roxbury Township is no longer the town just west of Randolph anymore! Come out and see for yourself approximately 100 of the reasons why Roxbury received the coveted “100 Best Communities For Young People” designation by ING Corporation. Criteria for this honor include the following Five Promises as set forth by America’s Promise Alliance:

• Caring Adults
• Safe Places
• A Healthy Start
• Effective Education
• Opportunities to Help Others

The Roxbury High School Marching Band program encapsulates all of these ideals. Directors, instructors and parents alike work tirelessly to support their students’ musical endeavors. After school rehearsals and organized competitions present an enriching atmosphere to students both during the week and on weekends. Marchers benefit from rigorous marching exercises and enriching relationships within the band community. Veteran band members offer peer leadership and mentoring to their classmates. Additionally, a commitment to musical excellence, personal achievement and teamwork are instilled.

Fall is the time to head outdoors, grab a thermos of hot chocolate and enjoy a family adventure.

To learn more about the Roxbury Marching Gaels and the Roxbury High School Music Instrumental Program, visit http://roxburybands.org.