As the summer dies down and kids prepare to go back to school, the Poland High School Marching Band begins to prepare for another football season. The band kicks off a new marching year with preparations among the band directors, instructors, and students. In a relaxed setting, the band directors begin to discuss ideas and themes for shows early on.

This year, the band’s theme is based on the Greek legend of Icarus. This year’s soundtrack includes songs from Sheryl Crow, Katrina and the Waves, Elvis Presley, and Fall Out Boy. Band Director Jeff Hvizdos hints, “Hopefully, we don’t fly too close to the sun…” 

Throughout the season, the band parents, Flagline Instructor Ms. Jennifer Stefancin, and Drumline Instructors Mr. Matthew Hayes and Mr. Evan McCreary aid in preparing all parts of the band.  Mr. Hvizdos says, “They do all the behind the scenes stuff, allowing the directors to concentrate more on the sound of the band” 

After all the hard work the band puts in, Mr. Hvizdos has one thing to say: “I wish I could convince a handful of more kids of how rewarding it really is. My biggest reward is when I personally feel like after I’ve blown the whistle to get started; I can just enjoy what they’re doing.” 

Similarly, Senior Band President and Drumline Captain Ava Gallo takes on responsibilities within the band. Her duties include designing show shirts, spirit week, speeches, and drumline cadences. 

From Ava’s perspective, she describes band as a familial activity. The bond between students and the directors is closely knit.

“They treat us very perfectly,” Gallo states. “Everyone becomes a family, it’s all fun… and the best part of the week, good way to end it off.”

Overall, with the season being full steam ahead, the marching band will be something to look forward to this year.