The 19th annual Scotch-Plains Fanwood marching band home show, held on Saturday, Sept 16th on Tyson Field, was a night filled with great energy and music. Ten marching bands from around New Jersey, including John P. Stevens and Westfield High School, competed for titles in their division.

The event was also a fundraiser for the SPF Music Boosters, selling tickets and snacks for audience members and performers. After the ten competing teams finished, there was a spectacular performance by the Raider’s marching band as an unjudged home exhibition titled, “Elements: Water, Earth, Fire and Air”, which was comprised of 3 parts and directed by Mr. Durand Thomas. Drum majors this year are Senior Samantha Graifer, Junior Audrey Smith and Senior Briana McGowan, who is returning for her second year.
After winning first place all around in their division, VI open, during the first competition in Edison on Sept 9th, the marching band was filled with undeniable enthusiasm and confidence performing on our home field.
“It’s not really always about winning, but it sure was amazing to see us start off with such great scores,” junior Jennifer Schug said.
Most band members also agree that this year’s show tops performances from previous years; each section of the show representing a different element, such as water, earth and fire, with corresponding color guard flags to the color of the element.
“I think [this year’s show] is absolutely amazing,” drum major Samantha Graifer said, “It gets better with every single year and this year we have the perfect show and the perfect band to perform this show”
All the bands competing did a fantastic job showcasing their talent and entertaining the audience with well-played music. Some standouts were Immaculata High School, who gave a strong performance with their first show of this season titled, “The Fountain of Youth”, which included props such as a fountain and a costume change. As well as JP Stevens, with their massive yet in sync band, who performed their show titled, “Once Upon A Time”, which told a fairytale through music and visuals.
This is expected to be a great marching band season, especially with the talented Raiders marching band and their phenomenal show.