DHS Falcon Marching Band headed to Florida Battle of the Bands

By Samantha Lyles, Staff Writer, slyles@newsandpress.net

Darlington High School’s Marching Band will take part in a musical throwdown of national importance when the Marching Falcons head south to play in the Florida Classic Battle of the Bands on Friday, November 17.

As a table setter for Saturday’s 38th Annual Florida Classic football game between college rivals Florida A&M and Bethune-Cookman, the band competition serves as a spirit-building pep rally where youngsters get a taste of performing before large live audiences in an positive and energizing atmosphere.

The Battle of the Bands will take place in Orlando’s Amway Center, home of the NBA’s Orlando Magic, and will feature top bands and dance teams from across the country. DHS band director Brendon Johnson says this competition is an important chance for musicians and dancers to showcase their talents, but it also serves as a way to open their minds to the wide scope of opportunities for education, travel, and personal growth that can result from a true dedication to their work and craft.

“A lot of kids after graduation end up staying here in Darlington and working hourly wage jobs, because that’s all they know or that’s all they’ve been exposed to, but a lot of these kids are talented and don’t realize what they could do because it’s never been showcased in a manner where people can respond to them and their talents,” says Johnson.

“This shows them that there’s a big world out there where they don’t have to join a gang or risk their lives or do minimum wage jobs, but they can use their talents to get a quality education, or get more money while serving in the military so that they can live an even better life.”

Johnson says that the band kids are so excited for this trip to Orlando that they’re practically floating on air, and he believes that these good vibes will translate to an electrifying performance when the Darlington contingent takes to the floor on Friday night.

For their performance at the Amway Center, the Marching Falcons will play “Ain’t Nobody” by Chaka Khan, “No Parking On The Dancefloor” by Midnight Star, and “Don’t Leave” by Snakehips – a high-energy slate of music that should give these young musicians a real chance to shine.

The Florida Classic Battle of the Bands will begin at 7 p.m. on Friday, November 17. Johnson says that, if it is permitted, video of the DHS Falcon Band performing live will be streamed on the band’s Facebook page so all the folks back home can enjoy these talented hometown kids and relish their moment in the spotlight.

If you are interested in helping fund future activities and trips for the DHS Marching Falcon Band, please contact Brendon Johnson at 843-398-2741.

Author: Duane Childers

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