At a banquet held Monday, November 17, Newtown High School Band Director Kurt Eckhardt reflected on the NHS Marching Band and Guard’s competitive season.

“This was the most ambitious show we have ever had,” he told the audience of more than 300 students and their families. “And I believe this was the best band we’ve ever had.”

Mr Eckhardt went on to praise his staff and the students, and their 94.9-point final score last Saturday night, November 15, at the USBands National Championships held at MetLife Stadium in Rutherford, N.J. He noted that the score was the highest NHS had achieved in the last two years. 

“I am extremely proud of such a team effort. I felt this was the very best show our band and guard had performed, and I am so happy they did it in a venue like Giants’ and Jets’ Stadium,” Mr Eckhardt said.

“We had fierce competition this year, playing against the best bands in the country,” he continued, repeating his praise for the students who ended their season seventh in the nation in Class V, up from eleventh place in 2013. 

Head Drill Instructor Bob Findley drew cheers when he reminded the audience that the guard was named USBands Class V Best in New England, and that they had earned a 391 out of a possible 400 score at the championships.

Now on to Winter Guard, Mr Findley added, noting that registrations for Newtown girls and boys in fifth through twelfth grade are still open, with practices beginning Monday, November 24, and the season opener set for February 7. 

For information on Newtown Winter Guard registration, to e-mail NHSWinterGuard@gmail.com.