Friends, families, and the community filled the Jurupa Valley High School stadium last month to watch the first Jurupa Unified School District Band Spectacular. Middle and high school students from across the district came together to showcase music and color guard routines.
The evening began with a middle school ensemble playing upbeat tunes. It was their first time playing under the lights on a football field. The crowd and the high school band watched and cheered them on as they performed.
“It’s definitely (a) motivating factor for them to see where they’re headed in band…to be able to get that experience and to witness it first hand and to actually participate in it is really motivating for them to continue on into high school with music.” Mission Middle School Band Director Ross Yohonn said.
Jurupa Valley High School set the tone with their melodic tunes and color guard performance.
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Patriot High School's performance featured a detective film noir theme. The color guard wore trench coats and waved newspaper-print flags. A gravelly, 1940’s radio detective voiceover completed the mood.
Rubidoux High School ended the night with their Burial at Sea show. The band wore pirate costumes, and the color guard performed as sirens. Their high energy wowed the crowd.
But it's not just about entertainment. Participation in band helps students to be more engaged in school.
“When they are excited to come to school… they will be engaged in the classroom. If they are coming off the high of playing in band and doing something artistic, and they go to their math class… they carry that same kind of energy, it can take them so far.” Rubidoux High Director of Instrumental Music and Color Guard Sarah Choi said.
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“Being in band, you feel more attached to the school because you have somewhere to belong.” Patriot High School Band Director Chris Case said.
When band students begin at an early age, they can experience a tremendous change in their confidence and school performance. Jorge Orosquieta, Patriot High senior, has played the trumpet since the 4th grade.
“Being in band elevates my school experience because it’s… showing me how to be in leadership… understand people more,” Orosquieta said.
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Teamwork and dedication contribute to a successful band. Patriot High senior Angelina Pratt enjoys showcasing her color guard capabilities to attendees.
“I feel like doing all of this…it shows how we practice all together as a band and a color guard, and it shows all the hard work that we put into our show and it’s nice for everyone to see,” Pratt said.
