This past weekend, the Scotch Plains Fanwood High School marching band performed their show: Los Bocetos de España (A Latin Jazz show) for the last time at the U.S. Bands Mid- Atlantic Nationals. They came out 3rd overall and won the caption best visual award at this competition. The marching band has had a very successful season, coming out on top at a few competitions and even got 2nd place at states as well as receiving the cadets award. 
Marching Band is a tight-knit group of talented students that have worked so hard this season and have really found a family within the band. 
“I gave [color guard] a shot and it was actually so rewarding,” sophomore John Leonardo said. “I felt as if I finally found something I was truly passionate about,” 
From band camp and the home show to Nationals, everyone can agree (both those in the band and those watching) that the show has improved immensely through the insane practice process.
“I thought our performance was a great end to the season since it was pretty much everyone’s best show of the year,” sophomore Aditya Phatak said. “Everything we had worked so hard on came through and it felt like everyone was on the same page in terms of focus.” 
The band is under the direction of Durand Thomas, who led the band to success throughout the season. 
“I think [Mr. Thomas is] a compassionate man that teaches his students the pursuit of greatness,” percussionist Julia Rosen said. “I would not be who I am today with the constant feedback I’d received from the directors, such as Mr. Thomas, during the marching band season, and it’s taught me to be a better, stronger person.”
Congratulations to the members of the 2019 marching band!