(2-minute read)
This article was written in collaboration with an RMHS Band parent.
The RMHS Marching Band competed Saturday, October 17, at the New England Scholastic Band Association’s fall event at Reading Memorial High School, performing on the Hollingsworth Football field alongside 21 bands from across the region.
Competition results
Band members pose with trophies from the competition, dressed as ravens and the show’s cloaked narrator. Photo by Taylor Gregory.
Reading took first place in Division II with a score of 85.750, extending the band’s winning streak to four competitions this season. The result came in a crowded field, with Medford (83.860) finishing second and Salem Blue Devil (83.320) taking third, and followed a strong showing at the Reading Home Show, the group’s largest fundraiser of the year.
This year’s show
This year’s show, titled Nevermore, draws on Edgar Allan Poe’s poem of the same name. It features a mysterious narrator, played by Bruno Mancuso; color guard members “flying” as ravens with mechanical wings; and a haunting musical number that brought the crowd to its feet. Longtime Band Director Joe Mulligan has led the program through the show’s development this season.
Graduating seniors
The band will say goodbye to eight graduating seniors in the spring: Avery Black, Madaket Carpenter, Theo Cunningham, Bill Lockhart, Brianna Gagliardi, Kevin Luo, Cam Myers, and Isabella Ruelos. With so many seniors departing, the program is looking for incoming eighth graders to join what members describe as an inclusive and welcoming band community.
Snare drummers perform as part of the band’s percussion line. Photo by Taylor Gregory.
Band parent Allison Melton said watching the students perform brings a particular kind of pride. “You can’t help but feel pride when seeing what these kids are able to accomplish, both as individuals and as a group, working tirelessly toward a shared goal,” she said. “Watching your child feel pride in their own work and the work of their peers is an amazing feeling, and it never gets old.”
Beyond the marching field
Beyond its six seasonal marching band competitions, the more than 40-student program also performs at RMHS home football games, Reading’s Tree Lighting, the Festival of Trees, and the Memorial Day Parade. While competition on October 17 centered on the band, the RMHS Choir also took the field, with Choir Vice President Emily Heithaus leading the group in a rendition of the National Anthem at the awards ceremony.
Food and fundraising
ColorGuard members leap while waving purple flags during the performance. Photo by Taylor Gregory.
The event also raised funds for the band program through a 50/50 raffle and bake sale, with food available from the Snack Shack. It offered hot dogs, chicken pot pies from Harrow’s Chicken Pies, pizza, cups of noodles, pretzels, apple crisp, candy, popcorn, and chips, along with soda, water, coffee, and hot chocolate to warm people up on the chilly evening. Harrow’s, Reading Cooperative Bank, Pizza World, and Market Basket sponsored the Snack Shack.
Residents can view the full schedule and results from The Reading' Home Show on the New England Scholastic Band Association’s website.
How to donate
Those interested in supporting the Marching Band can donate on the RMHS Band Parent Organization website; proceeds go toward equipment, uniforms, and related program expenses.
Interested in seeing more high school sports coverage in The Reading Observer? We’re looking to expand our coverage with the help of parents, coaches, and community members who want to contribute. If you’re interested in collaborating, reach out to Taylor Gregory at TGregory@TheReadingObserver.com.
