The Marching Lions are heading to state!

Written By Abagale Elliott, photo by Valerie Bravo

The Salem Marching Lions are heading to state!

Last weekend the group participated in prelims at Springs Valley and earned an invitation to compete at state on Oct. 25 at 1:30 p.m. Scholastic State Finals will be held at Franklin Central High School. Salem Marching Lions and Director Brittany Hildenbrand will be competing against 15 other bands from the surrounding area.

The performance can only happen after endless practice and dedication both from the students and those who support them. In addition to Hildenbrand, others who have helped get the band to this point are Assistant Band Director Devyn Haas and Guard Directors Malachi Eddings and Stephanie Bower. These are people who have also made major contributions to the performance, which would not be as prepared without them.

The parents of the band members also deserve recognition. They have to be there for their students for everything from practice to support.

“It’s not just any singular person, the band parents who tirelessly spend so much time supporting the kids and the kids themselves are just as responsible for the contribution of making this show what it is,” said Hildenbrand. “Everyone involved has had big contributions to the performance.”

She said she hopes that the students perform to the best of their abilities and do well.

“I’m honestly super excited to have a drumline out on the field this year,” said Hildenbrand. “The kids really seem to love the final movement and there’s so much energy on the field it’s amazing.”