GSMB practices spy-themed fall show

"This year, we are adding in eighth-graders, so we are now Garden Spot Marching Band (GSMB)," pointed out Katie Beasley, band director for the group (formerly the Garden Spot High School marching band), which introduced the rigors of marching band to both eighth- and ninth- graders during mini band camp and band camp. Mini band camp was held from 4 to 8 p.m. from July 29 through Aug. 1, and band camp ran noon to 8 p.m. each day from Aug. 5 through 9.

During camp, the nearly 60 members of the band, which includes six color guard, learned the music and drills for this year's spy-themed show, called "Agent 54." The three-part show features original music by Randall Standridge and a drill written by Beasley. "We will add in spy elements throughout the season," said Beasley, who noted that the show will open with the band members forming the shape of a question mark on the field and the color guard carrying flags with question marks on them. Later in the show, they will switch to flags with the image of a spy. "We will be setting that (sense of) mystery right away," said Beasley.

The style of the drill will be new for the GSMB, which Beasley said has traditionally performed shows set to pop music or movie themes. "This is a competitive-style show with more challenging music and a more challenging drill," she pointed out, adding that solos will be performed by Meredith Good on mellophone and Jude Kauffman on trombone. An expanded drumline this year has given Beasley the opportunity to feature the percussionists as well.

The change in the level of difficulty of the drill means that in addition to two Lancaster County Marching Band Coalition shows, Beasley has arranged for the group to take part in a Cavalcade circuit Freedom class noncompetitive exhibition- style show as well.

Beasley called the GSMB leadership team "phenomenal," noting that senior Brooklynn Groff and junior Elena Zimmerman, who serve together as drum majors took part in a drum major camp at West Chester University, where they excelled. The pair referred to the show as fun and exciting, noting that the band members are embracing the challenges. "The tempo is very fast, and it changes to very slow," noted Zimmerman.

"It's a drastic change," added Groff, who noted that there are more components to the drill than in the past. "We will have visuals and movements that will add expression," said Groff, adding that some of the movements are footwork changes and steps that create a box on the field.

One traditional element of band camp is dress-up days. This year, the leadership team included 'Merica Monday, Tacky Tourist Tuesday, and Wild West Wednesday among the activities that help draw band camp attendees together. "Getting to create a bond and making memories that will last a long time (is one goal)," noted Zimmerman.

"You make really good friendships," added Groff, who agreed with Zimmerman that the two have become closer friends since learning they would share drum major duties.

Beasley added that because parents donate dinner, including pizza and walking tacos, during band camp, the students eat together, which gives them the chance to mingle and get to know each other better.

The rainy weather during the week of band camp did not dampen the drum majors' spirits. Both were excited to invite audiences to see them perform at football games this fall. "Come see the show," said Zimmerman. "It's an original, so (you) don't know what to expect next. It's very mysterious."

Groff agreed. "Audience (members) will be on the edge of their seats," she said.