Darlington High School band marching to victory
By Sarah Bull, Special to the News and Press
The Darlington High School Marching Band hosted its inaugural showcase Saturday, April 16, in the gym, also lovingly known as “the bird’s nest.”
The first of its kind, the showcase featured four area marching bands from the region. Stopping by to unleash percussive sounds and creative dance were Wilson and Darlington high school marching bands, as well as a section of the Darlington High School alumni band.
Brandon Johnson, Darlington High School’s marching band director and instructor says, “I am a proud alumni and product of Darlington High School marching band, and what better way to give back to the community than to rebrand the marching band experience.”
He says his goal is to create more opportunities, showcase talent, which will hopefully yield in potential children interested in joining the band.
“Perfecting our children’s talent can create a bridge from high school to higher education,” says Johnson.
The crowd was filled with excitement as Greek step teams stomped through the crowds. Darlington High School was host to Alpha Kappa Alpha Incorporated – Florence chapter, South Carolina State University Kappa Kappa Psi, Benedict University’s Phi Mu Alpha and their marching band fraternity, Kappa Kappa Psi.
“As a proud parent of a young Falcon tonight, and a faculty member of Darlington High School, I was honored to witness a fun and positive night,” says Zakiyyah Stroman, a teacher for the school and a parent.
Included in the festivities were the most entertaining crowd pleasers, the Young Falcon dancers and drumline. The Young Falcons dancers and drummers were comprised of elementary and middle school students imitating and participating first-hand in dance and drumline.
Johnson is anticipating an increase in member participation from the local showcase.
“My objective is that people will see the spirit and talent that our student body possesses, and be proud to support our local marching band here at Darlington High School,” says Johnson.
Although there were no awards for placement, everyone who participated received a plaque for outstanding pride and talent.
