Saturday, Nov. 4 marked Tuscarora Marching Band’s annual performance at the MMBA State Championships, held this year at Towson University. Their amazing display, the result of many hours of hard work contributed by each member of the band and Color Guard, resulted in a score of 95.025, the highest State score in Tuscarora history. They also won the award for “Best Overall Effect,” and ultimately placed second in their “Open Large” division directly under Gov. Thomas Johnson High School, who won by a slim margin of 0.175 points.

“I think everyone did their best,” said Art Paragsa, a senior and sousaphone/tuba player. “Very well done.”

Tuscarora’s contribution to the event began a little after midday following their arrival at the university. All morning, they had eagerly rehearsed their performance; an arrangement of “To Boldly Go,” an epic exploration of man’s journey to outer space and worlds beyond. Involving detailed set pieces including a space shuttle, Mars, and the Moon, as well as a drill synced to a soundtrack of mission control and rocket blasts, the display was a sight to behold in the Towson University football stadium.

“I think that the visual aspect was the best,” said Elise Auldridge, a senior and clarinet player. “That’s what I think I’m the most proud of.”

“The musical aspect was also really good,” joined Paragsa. “I think Mr. Karos does a great job at [guiding us].”

When asked if there was a great sense of community among the Marching Band, Paragsa and Auldridge both gave a resounding yes.

“We spend so much time [together], that there’s no way there wouldn’t be,” said Auldridge.

Ultimately, both Paragsa and Auldridge had the same final message–if you are interested in Marching Band, go ahead and join, you certainly won’t regret it.