MACES has added a new trophy to their resume. On Saturday, December 8, 30 members of the Marching Band traveled to Pierce College to compete in the Annual Band and Drill Team Championships. Five hours and 30 minutes later, LAUSD recognized the team with a 3rd place finish in Division 1A Red and 7th place overall In Division 1A. This marks a historic achievement for the school’s music program, as the band’s performance at the competition was their first-ever experience in this prestigious event.
The road to the competition began long before the bus ride to Pierce College. “In July, we started preparing our journey [to make] this show come alive,” Marie Mota, a senior drumline leader said. “We [spent endless] hours during the summer and after school working on marching technique, music intonation, and memorizing music,” Mota said.
The competition was filled with nerves and excitement. “Once it’s time for your turn to perform, you head over to the field… [we warm up], and [step] onto the field [and] perform our show (amazingly),” Pacheco said. After the performance, emotions ran high.”We [debriefed], and [cried] a little since it was the seniors’ last time performing,” Pacheco added.
When the results were announced, the emotions flowed. “We were all living in the moment, and it was an amazing way to experience our first competition,” Desiree Medina, a senior Colorguard Captain said. She was nervous before the performance but filled with joy afterward. “I was sore from smiling the whole time… it was the most amazing day in the world,” Medina said. “I was excited and emotional knowing this was the end of an amazing journey,” Mota said.
This dedication of the entire team made victory possible. “Our drum major, Nathan Ramirez, has driven us to succeed as a whole,” Mota said. She also praised Joel Pacheco for his leadership in shaping the program. “He worked endlessly to build a foundation in the program,” Mota said.
She also recognized the efforts of the staff and parents. “Ms. Rincon, our director, and Austin, our assistant director, played a huge role in the [show’s] creation,” Mota added.
For the MACES Marching Band, this competition was about more than just the trophy. It was about proving that their hard work could lead to success and pave the way for future generations. “We did something more than just playing for a halftime show for football… [we’ve created] a stepping stone for future band kids,” Pacheco said.
