The excitement is pumping high, as Perry band and color guard get ready to take on the homecoming halftime show. To carry on the tradition, many Alumni will be coming to the John Wren Stadium September 2 to unite with former the former Perry band and color guard.

Looking to put on a good show, band is adding more to their original drills and performing with about twenty alumni on the field and more in the stands. The imminent homecoming game is bringing unity among alumni, band players, and student life all together, resulting in a memorable ten-year anniversary.
In fact, preparations are not much different, compared to previous games. Former trumpet player in Jazz and marching band, Nic Katz says, “Everyone’s really excited. It’s a little bit apprehensive, but I think it’s more excitement than anything else.”

Overtime, band has grown influencing many, including the instructor, Brandon Keisgen, himself. As part of Perry’s ten-year anniversary, returning members get to come back to where it all started for them. Kiesgen states, “It’s cool because it’s not just our students, it’s also the alumni that kind of build that long-term culture.”

Evolving over time, marching band and color guard have grown. Starting with about eighty students, band has been growing throughout the years. Now, there are about one hundred fifteen students participating. Overall, Keisgen says that the bigger the band the better. According to Keisgen, a bigger band gives a larger sound that makes the stands more electrifying and enjoyable for students and performers.

Not only is band for high school, but as Alumni return home. It puts into perspective how influential band can be to students. Former participant in Jazz and marching band, Justin Shagena is also looking to pursue his band passion beyond the practice room. Shagena says, “The jazz ensemble has made me perform at a high level so I can spread my knowledge.”