October 28, 2019
By: Bill Conger
The DeKalb County High School band wrapped up its marching competition season with a second place finish at the 25th Annual Foothills Classic in Seymour, TN. At the contest Saturday (Oct. 26) in East Tennessee, the band performed its “Shades of Latin” show in its band class against McMinn Central and Pigeon Forge.
“The band performed at their peak on Saturday at the Foothills Classic,” says Band Director Tracy Luna. “They were awarded highest scores in visual categories within their class. Musically, they performed a demanding show that met the criteria for excellence within the state adjudication rubric.”
Besides placing second in band, the percussion and color guard took home first place trophies. The Fighting Tiger band also placed first for its visual show and second place in music.
“To be considered at the highest level musically and visually, the composition and drill consistently displays quality components of musical orchestration,” Luna explained. “A superior range of expressive components, musical devices, simultaneous responsibilities, and environmental changes are consistently evident and advanced. A superior range and variety of musical skills are consistently evident and advanced.
Achievement: Superior clarity, uniformity of style and interpretation are consistently demonstrated. Uniformity of tone quality and intonation are consistently demonstrated with highest proficiency. Consistency of timbre and sonority are achieved throughout the performance. Accuracy is consistently achieved. Percussion tuning and quality of sound are consistent and demonstrate the highest quality. Consistent achievement of musical, physical, and environmental challenges is fully compatible with training and effortless.”
In his 5th season as director, Luna says his latest band configuration is the “best one yet.”
“The band has been very competitive this season scoring consistently 1st or 2nd at each contest and has received superior ratings.”
Although the marching band season has concluded, much more is on the horizon.
“We are by no means finished,” Luna says. “The band still has two or more football games, Veterans Day, Christmas concerts, and three Christmas parades to perform in plus other various smaller activities…and that’s just before Christmas.”