In past years the only changes with the Middletown High School Marching Knights have been the movements, music, new members, and of course what the show is. However, for the first time since 2007, there will be two drum majors, Fredrika Rentzeperis and Matthew Rudy, for the marching band’s 2016 show “West Side Story.” This represents a new dynamic along with new challenges.
Sarah Callan, MHS senior and section leader for the trumpets said, “It’s already a little confusing at times on who listens to whom for directions, especially when they’re telling us different things.”
Ethan Lichtenberger, drum instructor for the Marching Knights said, “I think they both have great individual leadership qualities, but they need to work together to develop a cohesive system to lead the band.”
Although the questions have been directed towards leadership, and other members of the band, one of the drum majors also has some input on how they think they are doing and what they can do to improve.
“I need to be louder, and have more confidence. I’m learning to feel more comfortable on the stand while leading everyone,” said Rentzeperis.
This year’s show, as stated above, is “West Side Story.” Titles include, “Mambo,” “Cha-Cha,” “Maria,” “Cool,” “Somewhere,” and “Tonight.” At the start of “Cool,” Rudy changes his position as drum major to performance marcher, while Rentzeperis does the exact opposite.
The switch between the two is during a major tempo; going from 112 beats per measure to 152 beats per measure. The band has almost six measures to play and march without a drum major until Rentzeperis starts to conduct. That’s 24 beats without any one leading the band with the new tempo.
“It actually adds a new energy to the show since it’s a complete change in styles of music during their transition,” said Callan.
Rentzeperis said, “It’s neat looking up at Matt and then going up on the stand to see everyone marching and lead them.”
While asking band members what they think marching band means the most common answers were: ‘One band, one sound,’ and ‘band family.’ Those two simple groups of words have a much stronger meaning than you would think.
“I hope for the band to have as much fun as possible while still maintaining focus in order to have the best show we can,” said MHS sophomore, Dylan Sgrignoli.
In relation to what Sgrignoli said, MHS sophomore Kendal Neel added, “I just want to see the band connect more in every way – especially off the field. I think it would be cool if we did more outings with each other. It would help us get to know each other better and therefore creating a better band.”
“I don’t want there to be any division with the band,” said Rentzeperis.
Sgrignoli added by saying he believes the Marching Knights trip to Disney in 2016 will be an incredible bonding experience for all of us.
Callan gives the best overall opinion about ‘one band, one sound.’ She said, “When the band gets too ‘cliquey,’ it’s hard to be ‘one band, one sound’ rather than everyone just doing his or her own thing. I really want this band to be a band family so we’re all there for each other if needed and do the best we can at these competitions. And if we do badly? Well at least we had a heck of a time failing.”
MHS band director Matthew Shearer said he had a hard time choosing just one drum major, so he made his decision so that they can lead the band and perform as well in the most effective way possible.
“I think that it will be a great experience for the band and for the drum majors. Having two drum majors allows them to conduct the band and perform on the field during different section of the show. It shows the versatility and musicianship that each member of the band should strive for,” said Lichtenberger.
The Marching Knights this year will definitely be going through some major challenges. No member in the band has ever had to perform with two drum majors. This season definitely has it’s challenges, but perhaps it’s already paying off.
On Sept. 19, the band won second place out of four other bands in the 3A division. They have been practicing the drill and music since August 10th at the start of band camp. The drum line, dance line, pit, woodwinds, brass and drum majors have never stopped working. The Marching Knights have definitely had their challenges. But that has never stopped them from striving for success.
“The band has a tough show to perform this year, but is definitely accessible with the right motivation and practice! Performing this show well will show a lot of growth in musicianship and dedication,” said Shearer.
