The Aliso ANHS months of hard work and dedication, the Aliso Niguel Marching Band swept the 2A division. They received first place overall with a score of 66.2, first place in auxiliary with a score of 74 and first place in percussion with a score of 66.
After years of inconsistent seasons and directors, marching band students and staff members were excited to attend their first competition with Aliso’s new band director, Mr. Ma.
“We had a great rehearsal in the morning and that set the tone for the rest of the day. In the end, the students pulled through and performed well, they did exactly as the instructors and I hoped for and we got the result that we wanted. It was a good and exciting day for us, ” said Mr. Ma.
The band has been working on aspects of this show since their annual end of summer band camp where they teach new members the basics of marching, along with new music and choreography for the upcoming season.
In addition, they hold rehearsals every Monday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., along with regular rehearsals during third period.
“The kids are doing great work, and whatever we throw at them they are able to pick it up and adapt on the spot,” adds Mr. Ma.
The marching band consists of five sections, the woodwinds, brass, drumline, front ensemble and color guard. All of the sections have their own captains and section leaders who are there to keep order and productivity in check.
The “captain” of the band is Aliso senior Aiden Scherffius, who is this year’s drum major. The drum major acts as a field commander and carries out instructions of the band director and staff.
Regarding Saturday’s performance, Scherffius shares that “it was a really good start for the band and we’re showing a lot of promise for the season and will hopefully shape up well by championships.”
Senior Al Kuznetsov also plays an important role in the marching band as brass captain and baritone section leader. Their responsibilities include taking charge of the winds during rehearsals and providing teammates with structure and leadership.
“I know that I strive to do my best on the field and really leave it all there. Me and my section put 110% of our efforts into it. I just really want people to see the art and the beauty that we put onto this field and the hard work that we strive for all season. After all, it’s exciting to see this new art form,” stated Kuznetsov.
The marching band is getting back to work as competitions are approaching fast with their next one hosted by Capo Valley High School on Oct. 21 and California High School on Oct. 28.
With a successful start to the 2023 season, the ANHS Marching Band hopes to see consistent improvement in scores, along with more first place finishes.
