Band Takes Fourth At EMA Competition
Band Takes Fourth At EMA Competition
Gesturing joyously, with fists clenched and arms upraised, NHS Marching Band Director James Dumas led the resoundingly enthusiastic reception from the spectators at the conclusion of Newtown High School Marching Bandâs final competition performance of the season.
The crown at the West Haven, Connecticut finals of the Eastern Marching Band Association (EMA) was led by a block of Newtown band parents waving blue balloons and pom poms. A standing ovation from the crowd was the early indication that Newtown had turned in a stellar performance.
The judges awarded Newtown a score of 94.7, the best score ever obtained by a Newtown Band.
Newtown was selected this year to compete in the Gold Division for Class V Bands, which comprises the largest and best high school marching bands in a region from New Jersey to Massachusetts. Competing against perennial powerhouse Norwalk (11-time champion) and the persistent second place finisher Trumbull, Newtown placed in fourth position, a fraction of a point behind New Jerseyâs Ramsey High School.
The 140-plus members of the Band and Color Guard were pleased with their steady improvement and increased competitiveness with top-rated bands. Although some other bands in their division restrict membership based on competitive auditions, Newtown maintains an open admission policy. In addition, the Newtown High School Marching Band is an extracurricular activity, which results in less practice time than other bands. Despite this, the Newtown High School Marching Band maintains its competitive status with the top marching bands in the multi-state region.
Over the course of this season, Newtown has shown steady improvement in the scores awarded to its performances. A panel of judges rates the performance on music, visual, marching, color guard, and other aspects. With a score of 94.7, Newtown received a Superior Performance Award for bands scoring over 90 in the finals. The final score is recognition of the outstanding efforts of the students, along with the dedicated efforts of the staff and parents.