A lot of work and support goes into the annual creation and presentation of one of the top high school matching bands in the country – the nationally recognized West Johnston High School marching band.

A lot of work and support goes into the annual creation and presentation of one of the top high school matching bands in the country—the nationally recognized West Johnston High School marching band.

This year's program, "Modern Gothic: A Darkness that Needs Light", is a gothic musical tone poem that moves from a dark mysterious opening, transforming into a light with a powerfully dramatic ending.

The larger story, however, may lie in the hundreds of hours of marching drills and musical development as well as the choreographic development of the color guard's visual show (even in the rain) that the West Johnston students and directors dedicate to the annual endeavor. When all of these components come to fruition, magic happens on the field.

Another "behind the scenes" component which helps the magic happen is the entourage of volunteers which work tirelessly on the show's behalf. In many ways it closely resembles a traveling theatre or rock show, setting up and tearing down the set in all kinds of weather conditions. The difference is, that while professional roadies get union wages, these individuals only get the satisfaction of knowing they are contributing to a once in a lifetime experience for their kids.

These unpaid roadies travel in a caravan that includes an 18-wheeler and several trailers and rented coaches. The building of props requires the skill and volunteered time of local professional artists.

Along with directors Lance Britt, David Duffy and Garrett Griffin, a troupe of over 45 parents and technical support staff traveled with the band to West Chester, PA this past weekend. The West Johnston High School marching band proudly placed third, only 1.3 points from first place, in the Bands of America Regional preliminary competition. Due to extreme weather, the finals competition was cancelled. In less than two weeks the band will travel to Indianapolis, Indiana to represent the state of North Carolina at the Bands of America Grand National Marching Band Competition at Lucas Oil Stadium.

The West Johnston Marching Band is one part of the school's award winning music program. This program includes three concert bands, a brass quintet, jazz band, a pit orchestra, two winter guards, and an indoor drumline all of which compete at the national level. If you would like to know more about this program, go to www.wjhsbands.org.

"Our philosophy has always been, with hard work and dedication anything is possible," stated Director of Bands M. Lance Britt. "It has been our pleasure to represent our school and community throughout the United States. I know no better way to bring a positive light on the great things going on in Johnston County than by letting the world see our kids in action," he continued.

The band will be performing its 2009 Program "Modern Gothic: A Darkness That Needs Light" for the community Saturday night, November 7 at 7:00 pm at the WJHS Stadium. Admission to the show is free. "I hope our entire community will come out and see these amazing kids in action." Britt concluded. The band's sponsorship program can be contacted through the "Friends of the Band" link also located on the website. Corporate sponsors enjoy promotion of their company on band vehicles, t-shirts and our band's website.

Related Links

1. http://www.wjhsbands.org