story by isabela rzeznik
photos by jesse walker

The members of the Bulldog Marching Band have spoken: band camp was hot!

Of course, they are referring to the sweltering days Georgia has had this summer, but under Band Director Jeffrey Rowser, the band has turned up the heat in a big way for the upcoming football season. With an exciting and ambitious half-time show as well as brand new uniforms and not to mention more members, it seems that the Bulldog Marching Band can look forward to a sizzling, successful season.
Band camp lasted two weeks. from July 23 to Aug. 2, from 8 a.m.- 5 p.m., and two days with extended hours, 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. Rowser explained that the two days with additional time were “designed to build stamina, and focus,” as well as allow the band time to bond with one another, especially during mealtimes.

There is fiery competition between the different sections. Each one claimed that they are the best section to play in and take great pride in their instruments. As Rower said, “The discipline that they get from being in band…leads to success in any field or endeavor.”
The tubas advocate that though their instruments are heavy, they provide the best shade. “Tubas are the icons of the marching band,” said Nate Conn, who is the section leader. Garrett Godbey, the band captain, plays the tuba.

The trombones feel unique, since their instruments have slides instead of valves to push.

The percussion section is highly disciplined, since they keep the beat for the entire band, but also a tight family unit.
The trumpets, specifically Camden Hutcheson, described themselves as being the “louder, faster, higher,” section, meaning that they always get heard.

The woodwinds like the fact that their instruments are light to carry and they always enjoy themselves.
The drum major, Dylan Jaynes, advocated that each section was working hard to learn their music and that he has been making sure to be accurate in his directing of them.

What did they all agreed upon? The high temperatures, of course, and the new uniforms were a hot topic. Rowser described the new uniforms as having a more contemporary look, with school colors incorporated. They will have a gray, silvery tone with one white sleeve and red accents. The rest of the uniform is black. In addition, the uniforms will also be lighter weight therefore more comfortable to wear for band members. 

Enthusiasm for the half-time show was also common for each section. The theme this year, according to Rowser, is based on four colors – red, yellow, blue and purple – with each song representing those colors.

This is Rowser’s second year as band director at MCHS, with a career that has spanned 32 years in various Georgia high schools. Though Rowser is certainly demanding of band members, he recognizes that his students are a “class act.” He even gave the band the last day of practice off. It was a reward for their two weeks of ample sweating and working hard, plus the band was able to learn the entire show. 
Mitchum Tuell sums it up: “Band camp makes water taste better.”

Printed in the August 16, 2012 edition