3rd Annual Marching Giants Awards Banquet

The Marching Giants meet in the HS cafeteria on Monday, November 26, to celebrate the 245 students on their 2012 marching season.  The first award was presented, in the cafeteria; to the outstanding Crew Member and was awarded to Joe Stovall, II.  Joe’s hard work and dedication to the Marching Giants earned him this honor.  Dave Cole, director, released the seniors and their parents to enjoy the catered food from Jug’s Catering.  They provided their famous fried chicken and biscuits with apple butter, green beans, pasta salad, and mashed potatoes.  Then Cole released the junior, sophomores and finally the freshman to enjoy the evenings dinner.  After everyone was finished, they relocated to the auditorium for the awards presentation.

Once everyone had settled into the auditorium, the awards presentation began.  All the directors took turns announcing names of the 83 students that had accomplished perfect attendance.  This is no small feat considering practice starts in July and runs through November with football games and contest in there as well.  The “Most Improved” section was the Tuba section; followed by the “Most Outstanding Section” being awarded to the Battery (percussion).  The directors recognized the 2012 Drum Majors, Kelsey Mendenhall, senior, Michael Whiteside, senior, Beth Smalley, junior, Kevin Salinas, junior, and Grace Ishikawa, junior.  The senior drum majors were awarded plaques for their service and dedication.  Band awards were presented next, they included:
 
Outstanding 1st Year:
     Nicole Zellers and Pedro Martinez

Outstanding Freshman:
     Julianna Flick and Nicholas Fordyce

Outstanding Sophomore: 
     Katherine Holsapple, Herson Madrid, and David Carney

Outstanding Junior:  
     Jacque Jordan and Brandon Knop

Outstanding Senior:  
     Jayashree Brown-Riddles andBryce Lee

Outstanding Mental Attitude:  
     Sierra Graves and Amanda Bell

Outstanding Brass:  
     Taylor Bennett and Chad Bridgwaters

Outstanding Woodwind:  
     Eric Ehizokhale

Outstanding Battery:  
     Joe Stovall, III

Outstanding Front Ensemble:  
     Martell Person

Outstanding Rifle:  
     Drue Rodeghier

Outstanding Flag:  
     Ashley Earnest

Outstanding 1^st Year Guard:  
     Kylee Vaughn

Outstanding Color Guard:  
     Annabella Habegger

Miss Choreography:  
     Sierra Graves

Mr. Choreography:  
     Jaden Sheppard and Jack Akard

Miss Feet: 
     Paige Hutson

Mr. Feet: 
     Jevon Robinson

Miss Marching Giant:  
     Kelsey Mendenhall

Mr. Marching Giant: 
     Tyler Blythe

Once all the awards were handed out, the audience enjoyed the 2012 reflections slide show which included over 500 pictures from the past year.  Congratulations to all those achieving awards and to all that had any involvement with the awarding 2012 Marching Giants.

Now that the marching season is over, the students continue their music enrichment by participating in Jazz Band, Show Band, All-State Band, Winter Percussion, Winter Guard, ISSMA Solo, Ensemble and State qualifications, Ben Davis Symphony Orchestra and Pep Band.  Music is their Life!

Marching Giants Finish Season Ranked 16th in the Nation

 

The Bands of America Grand National Championships is recognized as the premier marching band event in the nation.  87 bands from 21 states, from around the country, made the trip to Lucas Oil Stadium between Thursday, November 8, and Friday, November 9, for Bands of America Grand Nationals, a program of Music for All, to compete in preliminary competition.   Once preliminary competition is complete, the top 34 bands will compete in semi-finals on Saturday in hopes of being one of the top 12 bands in the country. 

The Marching Giants continued practicing each day last week working to improve their show for this competition.  They competed on Thursday, November 8, in preliminary competition at 7:30 pm.  Before heading to Lucas Oil Stadium, the principal of Ben Davis HS, Sandy Squire, provided pizza to the members and wished them Good Luck on their quest.  Once they finished eating, the Marching Giants dressed in uniform and loaded the eight buses that took them to Lucas Oil Stadium where they presented their show to the audience and judges.  As always, the Marching Giants did not disappoint; their music, written by Don Barrett, tells the story of “A Thin Line Between Love and Hate”.  Starting with “Reaching Out”, followed by “Rejection” and “Acceptance”, and concluding with “A Stronger Voice”.  After their performance, they loaded the eight buses and headed back to the school.  They would have to wait until 10:00 pm on Friday to find out if they would move on to semi-finals.  It was a long wait, but finally the call came to the members; they would have a report time of 5:00 am on Saturday because their performance time was 9:30 am.  The Marching Giants finished 9^th in Class AAAA and 10^th overall among the 43 bands that performed in preliminaries on Thursday.  Once the students arrived at the HS, they had a short practice before donning their uniforms one more time and heading back to Lucas Oil Stadium for their performance.  Again, they awed the audience with their use of fences as props, marching and dancing throughout the show, while the color guard spun, twirled and tossed their flags and rifles.  After they finished, they loaded the buses and head back to the school to wait yet again.  Director, Dave Cole, told the students to go home and get some sleep; but, to report back at 4:15 pm to watch the awards ceremony. 

All the members, volunteers, family, and staff crammed into the band room to watch the ceremony as it was projected on the drop-down screen.  All was quite as the top 12 bands names were announced.  The Marching Giants did not hear their name called.  Sadness hit the Marching Giants as they came to the realization that the marching season was over.   Senior members understand they had worn the uniform for the last time in competition.  Cole addressed the crowd and became teary eyed as he congratulated the Marching Giants on a season well done; and thanked the senior members.  The members and staff have accomplished much during the 2012 season marching season; from winning their Class at Bands of America in Louisville, KY back in September, to placing 7^th in the State at ISSMA competition earlier in the month, to being the 16^th ranked band in the nation at the Bands of America this past weekend. 

The Marching Giants are an amazing group of kids that hold a special place in everyone’s heart that are associated with them; from the volunteers to the staff to the fans in the stands.  Congratulations Ben Davis Marching Giants.  Thanks for representing Wayne Township for a job well done!  Before you know it, they will be back out on the practice field preparing for the 2013 season.  To all the fans out there, it won’t be long before we…See you in the Stands!  Thanks for your support!

Marching Giants, A Tradition of Excellence

Countless hours of practice, in the sun, wind, rain, and even sleet, from July to November, brought the Marching Giants to Lucas Oil Stadium on Saturday, November 3, for the 40^th annual ISSMA State Finals.  The competition began on September 29, with 30 bands, from around the state, competing for the top 10 spots in State competition in Class A.  The 10 bands that placed in semi-state were present Saturday vying for the ISSMA State title in High School Marching Band.

After a morning of practice, the Marching Giants meet in the dressing room for the tradition of celebrating with parents and supporters in their accomplishment of qualifying for State finals.  The members then put on their uniforms and met in the band room, for another tradition, their pep talk from band director, David Cole.  Cole explained to the kids they were part of a great legacy as the Marching Giants have been present at many other State Finals, over the last 40 years, and the 2012 members would continue on with the tradition as they competed that evening.  The members loaded their eight buses; but since this was State competition, the tradition of IMPD and IFD escorting the members to Lucas Oil Stadium continued.  For the freshman, this would be their first experience to be part of the excitement of being a Marching Giant competing in State Finals; while the seniors reflected on their last State Final competition reminiscing about past performances.  As the buses drove the route, members experienced the traditon of supporters lining the route with signs of encouragement, waving purple and white pom-poms, and horns honking, it was a great day to be a Marching Giant!

 

Upon arrival, the members disembarked their buses to participate in the tradition of section circles.  They separated into their sections of flutes, clarinets, alto saxophones, low reeds, trumpets, mellos, tubas, low brass, percussion, and color guard for words of encouragement from the section leaders, drum majors, and one another.  After circles, the members entered Lucas Oil Stadium through the down ramp into the underneath of the stadium for physical and music warm-ups.  While the members prepared for their performance, parents, friends, and fans filed into the stadium and settled into section 236 in anticipation of the show.  Finally, the time had arrived for your Ben Davis Marching Giants to take the field and the tradition of the fans shouting out B-E-N D-A-V-I-S started and the crowd acknowledged the Giants presences.

 

The stadium erupts into cheers, screams and clapping as the members begin their decent down the tunnels and onto the Colts home field.  At 7:40 pm, the judge announced to the members they may take the field.  Fences, flags, rifles, instruments, and members are all positioned on the field and the 30,000+ members in the audience became quite as the announcer presents the Ben Davis Marching Giants and their show “A Thin Line Between Love and Hate”.  The four drum majors that start the show began to count the beats and the show starts.  The Marching Giants give the audience an amazing show; so much so, they get a stand ovation during the third movement and at the end of the show.  The students played loud and marched in formation, while the color guard danced and spun flags and rifles.  The fans in the stands are impressed by this State performance.  Cole later tells the students they had their best show.  The students felt they have done well.  The American Dairy Association is a proud sponsor of ISSMA State Finals and the tradition of every member of all the bands received a pint of milk because, “Winners Drink Milk” continued because all 40 bands that performed at State Finals are winners!

Since they were the first band to perform, the Marching Giants are able to enjoy the rest of the evening having dinner provided by the Band Boosters and watching some of the bands as they performed while waiting for awards.  The tradition of full retreat would start the awards ceremony and Ben Davis Marching Giants would be the first school to be called and the members filed out onto the field.  Section 236 erupts into cheers, once again, for the members as the school name is announced.  During awards, the Marching Giants are presented with the 7^th place trophy and cheers, screams, and clapping as loud as thunder could be heard around the stadium.  The Marching Giants finished the ISSMA marching season the 7^th ranked band in the State of Indiana.  Everyone associated with the Marching Giants are proud of the members and their accomplishment.  As one of the box trucks states, “Ben Davis – A Tradition of Excellence” the evening proved this statement true.  The Marching Giants continued many, many traditions that make them “One of the Best Bands in the Land!”

 

If you missed their State performance, don’t fret, the season isn’t over yet, they have one more week of practice and their final competition in Music for All, Bands of America, Grand Nationals competition that takes place over three days at Lucas Oil Stadium.  The Marching Giants perform in preliminaries on Thursday, November 8, at 7:30 pm.  They find out Friday evening, if they move onto semi-finals that take place on Saturday with finals also on Saturday evening also at Lucas Oil Stadium.  See You in the Stands!

Marching Giants Host ISSMA Semi-State

The Marching Giants hosted ISSMA Semi-State Class A competition on Saturday, October 27. The top 20 bands from around the state of Indiana came to Ben Davis in hopes of being one of the top 10 bands in Class A. A top 10 placement guaranteed a place in ISSMA State Finals at Lucas Oil Stadium on Saturday, November 3.
The schedule for Semi-State allows for bands from northern and southern Indiana to compete later in the day, due to the amount of time it takes to travel; which means bands close to Ben Davis perform in the first half of the competition. This meant Ben Davis would be the fifth band to perform. Weather conditions were cold and windy; but the Marching Giants were prepared with sandbags to hold down the fences and being dressed in layers to stay warm. With so many big bands performing, the stands were packed with fans from around the state from the beginning of the competition. The Marching Giants welcomed the large numbers in the stands since this was their home stadium.

The Band took the field to prepare equipment and props, while parents, family and supporters in the stands looked on and became quite in anticipation of their performance. Some audience members would be seeing the show for the first time while family members and supporters, who had seen “The Thin Line Between Love and Hate” during practices and competitions; where still holding their breath waiting for the first note. Then the flute solo starts followed by the saxophone quartette, followed by the rest of the band. Within seconds, the crowd burst into applause. The Marching Giants once again impressed the audience; from the use of the slats on the fence as they dance and spin, to rifles and colorful flags being tossed and a waved by the color guard, to the closer that finds the band members in the seamless circle created by the guard members; proving Love will conquer Hate. The audience was on its feet presenting the Marching Giants with a standing ovation.

Once all the bands had competed, the announcer called for all senior members from all 20 bands to line-up on the back side of the stadium to march to the first side. ISSMA would honor the graduating Class of 2013 for their time and dedication to marching band. After, the drum majors would line-up, in performance order, to accept their trophy of participation in Semi-State. After each band was announced, the top 10 bands were presented with a plate to be attached to their trophy proclaiming their accomplishment of being a State Finalists. The announcement would be in performance order; which meant Ben Davis would not have to wait long to find out if they had moved on. The first three bands were named followed by Ben Davis! The Marching Giants would be part of the 40th Annual ISSMA State Finals on Saturday, November 3, at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Many thanks go to the parents, volunteers, and staff members that have helped the Marching Giants achieve great things this season; and that season isn’t over yet. The Marching Giants take the field at 7:40 pm next Saturday for State Competition. Congratulations Marching Giants!


If you want to cheer on the convey of buses with the police escort, the route this year will be South on Girls School Rd.  ( Buses leave the school at 4:55 pm on Saturday, November 3rd )


East on 10th St.
South on High School Rd.
East on Rockville Rd.
South on I465
East on I70
North on Missouri St.
East on South St.
South on Capital Ave.

See You in the Stands!

Marching Giants Compete at BOA Super Regional

While still on Fall Break, the Marching Giants continue to practice and perform. Members continued to practice last week as they prepared for Bands of America Super Regional downtown. After an all day practice on Thursday and morning practice on Friday, the Marching Giants loaded their eight buses and head down to Lucas Oil Stadium for the Bands of America Super Regional preliminary performance. This competition was a two-day scheduled event with preliminary performances from fifty-two bands from eight states. All of these bands were competing for one of fourteen spots in final performance on Saturday evening. The Marching Giants arrived at Lucas Oil Stadium while it was raining. They were unable to hold circles outside; but the rain did not stop this tradition, they form the “circle” on the buses. Section leaders were able to continue the tradition by giving words of encouragement to the members before they entered the stadium, some for the first time. After, they unloaded the buses and began the decent down the long ramp into the underbelly of the stadium. Making stops in physical and music warm-ups before taking the field.
Finally, the members were on the field and ready to show all the fans in the stands their show “A Thin Line Between Love and Hate”. If any member was still nervous, the audience was unable to tell, as the members give it their all. During the show, the audience can be heard cheering and clapping during different places; after the flute solo, after the trumpet trio, during and after the drumline solo, after the music quiets and becomes loud again. The fans in the stands are not disappointed with this fast paced marching and awesome music from the Marching Giants. The show completes and the Marching Giants load their instruments on the equipment trucks and themselves on to their buses. Members return to the HS and head home. They would have to wait until last Saturday afternoon to find out if they would make finals.
Saturday, they return to the HS for morning and afternoon practice. Dinner was provided by the Band Boosters. After dinner, the members convened in band room to watch the preliminary awards ceremony. With fifty-two bands receiving participation awards, the anticipation built in the room. Finally, the announcer would call out, in no particular order, the top fourteen bands. These bands would perform in finals competition Saturday evening. Ben Davis was the fourth band to be called. The band room erupts in screams and cheers. However, the members, parents and staff could only celebrate for a moment, since they would be the fifth band to perform and everyone needed to load the buses and head back to Lucas Oil Stadium.

Ben Davis took the field at 8:15 pm; and with the top fourteen bands performing, the stands were packed with fans waiting to see all the top bands. The Marching Giants did not disappoint the fans. The performance was their best to date. The crowd is pleased as well. The Marching Giants received a stand ovation along with cheers and loud claps from their dedicated fans and new fans. After their performance, the members were able to relax and watch some of the other bands perform before awards. Since this was a BOA Super Regional, all the members from the fourteen bands would line the field in full retreat.
All the bands awaited the announcer to call their name for placement. The first three bands are called; members and fans did not heard Ben Davis, the next three places are called and Ben Davis is not one them; place 8th is called and then 7th, this time the announcer calls out the Ben Davis Marching Band. Ben Davis placed 7th overall for this Super Regional. The drum majors proudly receive the trophy for all the Marching Giants. Job well done!
Next week, the Marching Giants perform in ISSMA Semi-State competition. This is the next to the last stop before State competition; and will take place on their home field. Good Luck Marching Giants. For all you Fans…See You in the Stands!

Marching Giants Are One Step Closer to ISSMA State

Fall Break began for all of Wayne Township schools on Friday, October 12; but your Marching Giants return to the HS on Saturday to compete in ISSMA Regional competition. Four sites around the state would hosted this annual event. The Marching Giants would, once again, travel to Center Grove HS to compete against 15 other bands in hopes of receiving a Gold rating and placing in the top 10 scores to advance to Semi-State.

Saturday morning, the students arrived for five hours of practice to prepare for the ensuing competition. While the kids were grooming their show for the evening, approximately 10 volunteers were inside the HS preparing dinner for the unit. After practice, the members loaded the trucks and returned inside to partake in food, fellowship, and a little relaxation. When they finished eating, they went to the dressing room to put on their uniforms and return to the band room. The rain had come in while the members were eating; but when it was time to load the buses, the rain had stopped; but the wind had remained. The crew, concerned with keeping the props intact, loaded the sand bags on the truck just to be safe. With instruments, children, props, directors, and chaperones, all loaded on buses, semi and box trucks, the Marching Giants were ready to hit the road to Greenwood, IN for their next stop as they continue down the road that will take them to Lucas Oil Stadium and ISSMA State finals.

When all eight buses arrived, the members unloaded their instruments and prepared for the evening by attending “circles” for each section. The section leaders, directors, and drum majors speak to the students with words of encouragement before they took the field. Before moving through warm-ups, the directors found out there would be a 10 minute delay in the schedule due to a medical emergency that one of the other bands had experienced. Members were not aware and continued on with their normal routine of physical and music warm-ups. The time had arrived for the Marching Giants to take the field; many fans in the stands cheered and clapped. The wind was still a factor; but the props were prepared with the sandbags; the students did not have to worry about them blowing over this evening. The announcer presented the Marching Giants and their show “A Thin Line Between Love and Hate” while the crowd continued to cheer the members. Once all the props, equipment, and students were in place, all was quite in the stands as the flute solo starts and the show was underway. Throughout the show, phrases have been added where students say, “There’s a thin line between love and hate; it’s complicated; and love and hate, love and hate” echoed. Approximately seven minutes later, the show is finished and everyone in the stands is back on their feet cheering and clapping for the members and a job well done.

Ben Davis was the next to the last band to perform so they did not have to wait long for awards. However, it felt like a life time since the ratings are presented in performance order. Fourteen bands would receive their rating before Ben Davis would be announced; finally, the time had arrived, and the Marching Giants had done it; received a Gold rating. Next, the announcement of the schools with the top ten scores; and, for the second time that evening, Ben Davis is announced. The Marching Giants will be competing in Semi-State competition in their home stadium on Saturday, October 27; performance time is 1:52 pm. The Marching Giants will host the top 20 bands, in Class A, from around the state as they continue their quest in hopes of competing in ISSMA State competition.

Next week, you can see the Marching Giants at Lucas Oil Stadium for Bands of America Super Regional. This is a two day competition where the Marching Giants will first perform Friday afternoon at 4:15 pm. They will then find out on Saturday afternoon the results of the schools moving to finals. While many students will enjoy the two week fall break, your Marching Giants will be out on the field practicing and performing for the love of their show. They hope to…See You in the Stands!

Marching Giants Ben Davis Invitational; Sponsored By Qdoba Mexican Grill

Saturday, October 6, the Marching Giants hosted their contest “Preview of Champions”. Thirteen bands from around the state traveled to Ben Davis HS to participate in the contest. The day began with Class D and C bands taking the field. Among this group was Lewis Cass Marching Kings, they competed for the first time since the passing of their band director, Mike Clark. Principal, Mark Karmel, stated in the Pharos Tribune, “He really was an awesome teacher, not only in music, but in life lessons.” Clark passed away, Sunday, September 30; after a 10-year battle with cancer. The Marching Band community keeps his family and band family in their thoughts and prayers. During the awards ceremony, the Marching Kings would place first in Class D; making their director very proud. The Marching Braves from Maconaquah HS placed first in Class C.
After a short break, Classes B and A would present their shows to the many fans in the stands. While the scores were being tallied and confirmed, your Marching Giants took the field to present their show “A Thin Line Between Love and Hate” in exhibition to the visiting fans and their fans in the stands. Earlier in the day, they finished adding all the drill to the show; making their show complete. This would be the first time fans would see the completed show. New formations, flags and music gave fans more reasons to cheer and support their program. The final formation creates a heart on the field while the color guard hold flags of yellow silk with red and pink hearts. Once they were finished, the awards for Class B and A were handed out. The Marching Cougars from Bloomington North HS would receive first place in Class B. While Brownsburg’s Marching Bulldogs would receive first place in Class A. Congratulations to all the bands on their great performances.
This event would not be possible without the volunteers that helped with parking, hospitality, guides, director check-in, isle security, warm-up areas, and many other areas, along with all the donations and the giving of their time. The Marching Giants would also like to thank all the individuals, businesses, and groups that gave donations for trophy sponsorships and advertisements in the program. Special thanks goes to Qdoba Mexican Grill for sponsoring the event. Thank you everyone for another successful Ben Davis Invitational!
Next week, the Marching Giants travel to Center Grove HS to continue their march to State as they compete in ISSMA Regional. Performance time is 8:45 pm. See You in the Stands!

Senior Members Honored; Marching Giants Participate in ISSMA District

Friday, September 28, the Marching Giants honored the largest graduating class in many years. 55 members and their parents were presented before the half-time show. The following students are part of the Class of 2013:

Eric Ehizokhale, Leland Gupton, Carson Henderson, Amber Jackson, Bryce Lee, Jacob Wistendahl, Rebecca Cable, Michael Fleming, Chad Bridgwater, Allison Downing, Leanne Howard, Tomiwa Awobayuu, Amelia Delong, Ashley Earnest, Annabella Habegger, Baily Jones, Brianna Jones, Amanda Latta, Octavia Lee, Kara McKinney, Olivia Peavler, Sara Garrett, Drue Rodeghier, Kassidy Simpson,
Megan Smith, Kokeb Gebre, Alyssa Burke, Hussien Goson, Kayla Houston, Brook Cooper, Paige Huston, Jose Sanchez, Jaden Shepperd, Gelila Teklu, Rachel White, Andria Camp, Valerie Friberg, Martell Person, Joe Stovall, Emily Wessel, Louis Wieseman, Jack Akard, Tayler Bennett, Tyler Blythe, Jevon Robinson, Michael Whiteside, Kyle Ziko, Tyler Blascow, George Cooper, Anthony Johnson, Marcus Shoemaker, Devon Stelle, Kelsey Mendenhall, Jessica Purvis, Jayashree Brown-Riddles

Thanks to all the seniors for the many memories over their three to four years as a Marching Giant!
Saturday, the Marching Giants begin the march to Lucas Oil Stadium for State Competition. The Marching Giants began Saturday, September 29, at the HS for practice before heading to Plainfield HS later in the afternoon. Indiana State School Music Association (ISSMA) sponsored competition that begins with District and ends with State. District is held at seven locations, with 148 bands in four different Classes from around the state. Ben Davis HS participated at the Plainfield location as one of five bands in the Class A category. These bands are looking for a Gold rating in order to move to the next level, Regionals. The Marching Giants went through warm-ups and were ready to take the field. Fans pack the stands from one end to the other. The crowd erupts in cheers as the members began to file out onto the field. As fans have seen in past weeks, the Band has added new music, drill and movement, along with new flags for the color guard to extend the show. Ben Davis performed third in the line-up of five; they gave it their all. Members left the field feeling good about their performance. Members returned their instruments to the buses and grabbed a snack provided by Boosters. The drum majors return to the stadium to participate in the awards ceremony. All five bands in Class A receive a Gold rating and will be moving on to Regional competition on Saturday, October 13, at Center Grove HS, in Greenwood.

Next week, the Marching Giants host their own competition – Preview of Champions. The Marching Giants will perform in exhibition Saturday evening. See You in the Stands!

Bands of America Regional Competition in Louisville, KY

The Marching Giants participated in Bands of America Regional Competition in Louisville, KY at the University of Louisville Papa John’s stadium. Ben Davis would be one of 17 bands from five states around the country. Arriving early at the HS, Saturday, September 22, 2012, the members grabbed their uniforms and loaded five buses and headed south. A sixth bus contacted the Marching Giants fans. Once the buses arrived at Papa John’s stadium, the Band Boosters had sack lunches waiting for the members to enjoy. The weather was warm; but a bit breezy. After lunch, the members dressed in full uniform and prepared for circles. Section leaders, drum majors and the directors spoke with the members giving them positive and supportive words of encouragement. Finally, the time had arrived for the Marching Giants to move toward the stadium. Before taking the field, the members stop at warm-up where they warm-up their bodies and instruments before their show. After, they move to the stadium and prepare themselves mentally for the show. They arrived while the previous band is finishing up their show. As the members march onto the field, fans in the stands begin to show their support by spelling out

B-E-N D-A-V-I-S!

All is quiet; the announcer presented the Marching Giants and their show “A Thin Line Between Love and Hate” in preliminary competition. The flute and saxophone begin to play as the other members begin body movement. Members in the stands could tell the Marching Giants had an unwelcome element on the field. The wind caused their props to blow over and made it hard for the guard members to catch their equipment. Your Marching Giants pushed through their show, played their music, and continued with their body moves. Once the show was finished, the members marched proudly off the field. Awards for preliminaries would not be announced for four hours; so, the members loaded their buses and headed for Jeffersonville HS where the Band Boosters prepared dinner for the members. Before eating, the members had about an hour to rest and relax and stretch their bodies again. Keeping flexible is a requirement to prevent injuries. After relaxing, the members enjoyed their cookout; and found out they had moved on to finals by winning first in their class and had received the individual award for General Effect. The members were excited and prepared to return back to Papa John’s stadium. Once again, the members loaded their buses and headed back to the University of Louisville. Once there, they had additional down time; but made the best of it by making friends with members from others bands that had also made it into finals competition.

After making new found friendships, the members donned their uniforms and headed to warm-ups once again. 9:30 pm found the Marching Giants on the field. Fans again spelled out Ben Davis and could not wait to see their performance in finals. Thankfully the winds were calm for this performance and they presented their best show. Fans were on their feet, cheering, and waving pompons, because the final performance was the best they had seen to date. Members and fans did not have to wait long to find out results since the Marching Giants were the 8th band to perform out of 10. All band members lined up for Full Retreat. This consists of all 10 finalist bands to take their place on the field. During the awards ceremony, the Marching Giants were presented with medals for their 1st place in Class AAAA during preliminaries. Awards are presented from 10th to 1st place. Bands were being called for their awards; but Ben Davis was not among them. Finally the top three places were all that was left. The announcer called Ben Davis for 3rd place. Fans screamed and cheered for their Marching Giants and the accomplishments they had achieved during the day. Once the ceremony completed, the members broke ranks to congratulate members from any of the other nine bands on the field. After, the members loaded their buses and headed north to Indianapolis.

The day could not have happened without all the help from the volunteers including the box brigade for helping to prepare the uniforms before the members left, to the crew members that stayed at the stadium to repair props after the high winds wrecked havoc to them during preliminaries, to the Band Boosters that cooked and served dinner for everyone. Dave Cole, band director, stated, “What a great fun block we had! Thanks families.”

Next week, the Marching Giants perform during half-time at the football game on Friday, September 28, at which time the senior members will be honored; and ISSMA District competition at Plainfield HS on Saturday, September 29. See You in the Stands!

Half-Time Show, Clermont Parade, Fishers Invitational

The Marching Giants had a very busy weekend. Friday, September 14, they reported to the band room directly after school to practice before their performance at half-time. After the short practice the members grabbed a quick bite to eat and changed into their uniforms. Some jitters were present, mostly from the new members; but this is their home stadium, and it was homecoming, so they marched out proudly and presented their show to the homecoming crowd. Cheers came as the show began; but quieted down as the music begins and the members start their movement. As the show completed, the crowd is back on their feet, cheering and clapping as the members march off the field. The members are released after half-time since they have a full schedule on Saturday.

Saturday morning many members attend section breakfast in locations like Flapjacks, Burger, King, McDonalds and other location. Section breakfast allow the members to gather and discuss the show from the night before and forth coming competition later in the day. The members arrive at the HS at 8:00 am to begin practice. Before leaving for the competition, the Marching Giants are happy to represent the Wayne Township Community; they finish up their practice, and load eight buses to head to Clermont, IN to take part in Clermont Old Fashion Days. The parade steps off at 11:00 am and features, politicians, MSD of Wayne Township representative, including Dr. Jeff Butts, superintendent, and, of course, your Marching Giants. As the Marching Giants move along the parade route, the crowds move closer to the curb to observe the greats band in the township. Cheers, clapping, and screams can be heard as they play Battle Hymn of the Republic. Once the parade was finished, the members loaded their buses to head back to the HS. More practice; and then they were off to the First Annual Fishers Invitational at Fishers HS.

New members find they were nervous for their first competition; but found upper classmen around to give encouraging words and stories to help easy their worries. Once the students arrive at Fishers, HS, the Band Boosters have prepared sack lunches for the students to enjoy. The members enjoy fellowship before dressing into full uniform. Ben Davis was scheduled as the last unit to perform. By the time they stepped on the field, the stands were packed with fans from around the state. Fans in the stands begin the cheer that spells out Ben Davis to show their pride in the “purple train”; then all is quiet and the music begins. Fans find the color guard uniforms have arrived just in time for the competition. The mauve, grey, and black fabrics with silver sequins that shimmer as the guard members move and dance around. Also new are swing flags used in the final movement of their show “A Thin Line Between Love and Hate”. The flags flow and create ruffles in the breeze. The show finishes and the crowd is on their feet. Awards follow shortly after the Marching Giants finish. Ben Davis is award third place in their Class. The directors, parents and fans are very proud of the Marching Giants. When the buses arrive back at the HS, many of the fans are in the parking lot honking their horns and flashing their lights to show the support. Whether it’s a football game, a parade, or competition, the Wayne Township community is there to support the Marching Giants; and the students are happy to be part of this community.

Next week, the Marching Giants travel to Louisville, KY for Band of America Regional competition. See You in the Stands!

Marching Giants Prepare for 1st Competition

You will have two chances to see the Marching Giants in two different performances this Saturday, September 15. The Marching Giants will be one of the participants in the Annual Old Fashion Days parade in Clermont. The parade starts at 11:00 am; and begins at the intersection of SR136 and Raceway Road and ends at the Clermont Lions Club Park, where you will find vendors booths set-up. That same day, the Marching Giants will participate in their first competition of the season at the Fishers HS Invitational, Fishers, IN. The unit is set to take the field at 7:30 pm presenting their show “The Line Between Love and Hate” to fans in the stands. Dave Cole, band director, states, “This is our first chance to make an impression that will last for the rest of the season.”


Over the past week, the students have been adding additional music and movement to the show. While the students were on the field working on tweaking the show, about 20 parents and volunteers spent their Saturday, September 8, inside the HS helping to prepare props, practiced loading the semi-truck, cutting poles and building props. Cole stated, “Without our parent support, we cannot make it. Thank SO much!”

While the competition season is just under way, the Marching Giants are looking forward to hosting their own competition, Ben Davis Invitational, on Saturday, October 6. They are selling ad space in the programs. These programs will be available for sale, the day of the competition, to thousands of spectators that come from around the State. If you have a business or personal ad you would like to appear in the program, please contact the band office at 988-7211 for more information. The band is also taking personal messages to encourage the students starting at $1.00 a line. This is a great way to show your support for your child or the whole Band. Also available is Trophy Sponsorship. It has been a long-standing tradition that the trophies are sponsored by either businesses or individuals (many times as a tribute). Trophy sponsorships range from $25 (participation and caption awards) to $100 for 1st place trophy. If you know of a business or individual that would be interested in sponsoring a trophy, please contact Dave Cole at 988-7198.

With the marching season in full swing now, there will be many opportunities to see the Marching Giants, starting this Saturday; the members hope to “See You in the Stands!”

Marching Giants Dress for Half Time Show

The second football game of the season, found the Marching Giants dressed in full uniform. With the heat of the weather of late, the members have been seen in their travel uniforms for parades, ice cream social and the first football game. This past Friday the members were excited to perform to packed stands; but, the excitement also came from the students as they performed their show “The Thin Line Between Love and Hate” in full uniform for the first time this season. With the students dressing in full uniform they were able to find out which “Box” they would be assigned to and met their Box Moms, and in some cases, their Box Dads. The Box Parents volunteer their time to help the students look their best before taking the field. Once on the field, the members take pride in being part of the Marching Giants and the uniform. From head to toe, with the shako being positioned correctly to their shoes polished to a bright shine and everything fitting just so in between.


The half time show was a success this week as the members keep adding to their show. There are now fences as props that are taken apart and used in the show. Some of the members spin and dance with the fence pieces for a new visual effect getting “oohs and aahs” from the crowd. This is the first time in several years that the Marching Giants have used props as a visual effect in their show. After the spinning is finished, the fences are put back together and moved across the field for more effect.

This coming Saturday will be their last all day practice; as the following week, they begin their competition season. Their first competition will be at Fishers HS on September 15. Hope to…See you in the stands!

Marching Giants Perform During Half Time

Ben Davis hosted Cathedral HS on Friday, August 17, for the season opener football game; and where there is football; there is also the Marching Giants. With mild temperatures for August, the stands were packed with fans from both schools. While the members of the band prepared the field for the show, fans in the stands gave shout outs to the band as the anticipation built for the show to be begin. For this presentation, the band had some technical difficulties when the flute solo could not be heard. Within seconds, the issue was resolved and members did not miss a beat of the show. As the members of the band start their show with just the beat of the front ensemble, the flute is heard and the crowd goes wild. Members perform their body movement as the flute solo concludes and the members’ pick-up their instruments and begin playing the first movement entitled “Reaching Out”. While the band members play and move across the field, the color guard creates visual effect as they swing flags and rifles throughout the band.

For the second movement of the show, the members play “Rejection”. Again this year, the show’s music is original music by Don Barrett, composer. The members have only learned the first two movements of the show; but, when the show is finished will have learned the remaining two movements entitled “Acceptance” for the third movement; while the fourth movement has not been given to the students yet. Everyone waits in excitement for the final two moments to be put on the field. The members continue to practice, add, and prefect their show.

Your next chance to see what they have added is Friday, August 31, when Ben Davis will host North Central for Friday night football. See you in the stands!

Practice:
  August 22, Full Band, 3:30 pm to 6 pm
  August 23, Full Band, 5:30 to 8:30 pm
  August 25, Full Band, 8 am to 4:30 pm
  August 27, Color Guard, 6 pm to 9 pm
  August 28, Brass / Woodwinds, 3:30 to 6 pm
  August 28, Percussion, 6 pm to 9 pm
  August 29, Brass / Woodwinds, 3:30 pm to 6 pm
  August 31, Friday Night Football, Call Time, 5 pm
Performance:
  August 31, Ben Davis host North Central, 7 pm, Giants Stadium

Ice Cream Social a “Giant” Success

Despite forecasted rain, the Marching Giants took the field at Giants Stadium for their annual Ice Cream Social on Thursday, August 9. Many fans filled the stands for this annual event. Distinguished guest included Dr. Jeff Butts, superintendent, David Marcotte, chief personnel officer, and John Taylor, director of secondary education, from the Wayne Township Administrative Team. The evening started out the brass and woodwind members in 17 lines of 9 – 10 students presenting to the crowd their body warm-up. Members have learned ballet movements, such as, Degagé, meaning foot slightly leaves the field, Tendu, the working leg is extended to the front, side or back, gradually along the field until only the tip of the toe remains touching the field. The show “A Thin Line Between Love and Hate” requires the members to march, roll, and dance as they move from position to position all while playing their instruments. The body warm-up allows the kids to stretch and loosen their muscles to prepare their bodies while learning movements to use in their performance. After the brass and woodwind finished, the color guard members presented their body warm-up; showing the crowd much grace and pose. Due to the incoming weather, the directors thought it best to cut some corners and move straight to presenting the show.

The show starts with most members placing their instruments on the field or sideline. Only senior, Kelsey Mendenhall, playing her flute and the members of the pit begin playing. Kelsey is carried on a platform by the drum line across the field as she continues play. As the flute solo plays, the rest of the members are divided by “a thin line”; with the brass on one side of the field and the woodwinds on the other. Members dance with one another before picking up their instruments; and are then joined by the color guard as they begin spinning flags and rifles. The excitement builds in the stands as the crowd is impressed with the beginning of the 2012 marching season.

Want to see more of the Marching Giants; they will be back at Giants Stadium on Friday, August 17, for the season opener football game; when the Giants host Cathedral. Game time is 7 pm; with the Marching Giants as the half-time entertainment. See you in the stands!

Practice:
  August 15, Full Band, 3:30 pm to 6 pm
  August 16, Full Band, 5:30 to 7:00 pm
  August 20, Color Guard, 6 pm to 9 pm
  August 21, Brass / Woodwinds, 3:30 to 6 pm
  August 21, Percussion, 6 pm to 9 pm
  August 22, Full Band, 3:30 pm to 6 pm
Performance:
  August 17, Ben Davis host Cathedral, 7 pm, Giants Stadium

See photos here:  http://www2.snapfish.com/snapfish/thumbnailshare/AlbumID=4827814020/a=1447614020_1447614020/otsc=SHR/otsi=SALBlink/COBRAND_NAME=snapfish/

Marching Giants Plan for First Performance at Annual Ice Cream Social

The Marching Giants will take the field at their annual Ice Cream Social on Thursday. Dave Cole, band director, states, “A Thin Line Between Love & Hate includes original music by composer Don Barrett and visual design by Greg Hagen and Jack Pursifull; color guard choreography by Brayton Mendenhall and Nate Erwin. The 2012 Marching Giants program explores a multitude of opportunities both musically and visually. Contrasting musical styles and a sophisticated visual design highlight the differences and similarities within these two passions. The music for our show is original and has never been performed before. Bringing new music to the marching field further strengthens the Marching Giants reputation as an innovator. This year’s production promises moments of absolute beauty and segments of fire and excitement!”

The 2012 Ice Cream Social will be held Thursday, August 9, at 7:30 pm, in Giant Stadium. Come see the debut of the 2012 production of “A Thin Line Between Love & Hate!” The kids have put in many hours of practice over the summer. “You will see the kid’s hard work on the show has put the Marching Giants in a positive position”, states Cole.

Before the Ice Cream Social, you can be part of the Marching Giants “tailgate party” from 5 pm to 7 pm. The Band Boosters will be holding the party in Giants Stadium under the home seats. Nelson’s BBQ will be with us again providing their awesome chicken. Tickets are $10.00 presale; $12.00 day of the Ice Cream Social. Tickets may be purchased in advance by contacting the band office at 317.988.7211. The dinner will include, port-a-pit chicken, Rotini pasta salad, pit-tatoes, Texas style baked beans, rolls and butter, iced tea and lemonade. This is a convenient way for your family to have dinner and make the performance on time.

Please join us; we are counting on a large crowd for the kids to perform for; and you won’t be disappointed. See you in the stands!