As a freshmen, I went to compete in this exact contest with my band and had the joy to watch this exact performance those many years ago. Up until then, I only heard rumors about the legendary Marcus HS and their intense marching band program from the upperclassmen. Seeing what #1 looked and sounded like absolutely floored me.
Jeremiah, Marcus has a wonderful leader who strives on teaching the band students to respect all bands and band members because the common goal is making great music come to life on the field. As band Parents we cheer for all bands out there performing because we see the hard work, effort, and energy many of you put into your shows. There is Magic on those fields when you all play!
I am a freshman, this was my first year going to state. When I saw them perform, I couldn't believe how amazing a marching band performed. I thought we were good. But damn they were great, can't wait for next state year!
Marcus' drill for this show was certainly easy, but they were a lot more exposed musically (ex: 1:203:597:528:24), and the fact that they sounded incredibly good musically (and marched the drill cleanly) is what made them stand out. Plus, Marcus could have gotten big-headed and messed up on the drill (I bet that they knew that this was easy drill). But they knew better, and so they marched it as clean as possible.
Thank you for this excellent recording, the quality was superb! I don't know this band at all but they have a great instructor as the clean lines show. Lovely music and I like shows with a lot of substance over flash! I came from the Lincoln Marching Patriots in Sioux Falls, SD and we have a similar philosophy. Excellent job band and staff!
I love this show! the first statement of toccata gave me chills! i love being in Area B because i always get to see them and their AMAZING SHOWS!!!! great job guys! ~Martin Hs senior
The mark of sheer excellence in this show is the "time factor"! There is so much content, variation, and composition that the show is over MUCH too soon!! Performance levels of this group is off the chart! AND - no, I am not a band parent of a Marcus performer! Actually, I don't even live in Texas... Georgia resident here. And before any interstate bashing, I have also been a judge for over 20 years! This, plus exposure to the programs @Avon, Tarpon Springs, Choctawhatchee, and Lassiter.
Once i watched your show i realized that you guys have the potential and talent to all time champs, congratulations Marcus High School Drum Major of Bel Air High School Big Red Pride Marching Band of El Paso, Texas
I find it kinda of humerus that the people that SHOULD hate the Marcus High School Marching Band (for example Bell, Hebron, Reagan, Woodlands, CTJ, etc) don't. Why??? Because as competitors we see that they put as march hard work and effort into their show as everyone else and what they do is truly amazing. Say what you want but from the field view of that ensemble they sound and look spectacular. I am NOT nor never was a member of Marcus, I was or am a member of one of the bands listed above.
@ThatBunsGuy Well obviously the judges didn't sleep during the show since you know they won by a margin of 12 POINTS so don't hate appreciate that you got to see one of the best bands in the country
Not sure how anyone can be bored by watching a super excellent band perform the classics. I guess if they had played Lada Gaga and danced like the Rocketts those "bored people" would have been happy. Marching band is extremely difficult and complicated. While no big fan of Marcus, i recognize the genius of their music program.
Actually "Gilded Melodies", not "guilded". Different definition. "Gilded" is just a references gold. The gates, etc. are gold. More an effect/reference majesty of Bach's music than a story to be told. Bach was a royal composer. Also, (and I don't have any idea if Ms. Drinkwater was thinking about this), the gates allude to pipe organ pipes. There is a youtube video of an organist playing this music. When the camera pans up to those 64 ft. pipes, can't help but "see" those gates.Majestic!
I was honored to see my some of my friends at marcus high school's band win the state marching band contest, although I kinda wish midlo made it to state as well
aahh BOA, I remember winning state the first time in 06. that was my senior year. good year for Marcus, seems like they're still doing a good job. Def. glad I was a part of it for all 4 years.
Yes, you're correct. Bell doesn't march freshman, but that's because we're a 3 year high school. And whether Marcus marches them or not, they're still an incredible band! It's an honor to compete against them each year(: Cant wait for this year!
Bell has had it's turn as have many other bands. Marcus parents are the only ones who stand and clap for EVERY band (even Bell) when they compete. How many band parents can say that? And God bless the ones who do, because they understand that ALL bands work hard to get there. No one is going to bend over and kiss anyone's behind. It is likely those who "think" they are the best, generally fall short of being the best.
I'm from Haltom High and I've despised and envied Marcus for their greatness. I dont hate them. I know how hard they work, but if every top marching 5A school had all that money per student to each get private lessons and equipment, etc... We'd all be pretty spectacular.
It would be hilarious of Coppell's and Marcus' band directors were best of friends, although, I wouldn't be surprised...Oh and this show? I loved it. -CHS Band Member
Out of curiosity, what do top bands such as Marcus, L.D. Bell, and others think of the. Berkner High School band? For the past three years we've always been up there, but never on top. I'm curious to what other bands think of when they see Berkners name. -Junior trumpet player at Berkner
Go watch Coppell High School's show. You'll be knocked off your feet. Richard Wagner. No props needed. They have Dedication. Passion. You'll jaw will drop.
This was a fantastic show! But to be honest since I have marched in this show and the show from 2 years ago(Illuminaries) I still think the show 2 years ago was better! Congrats Marcus gonna miss y'all!
As a parent of a Marcus band member, I can assure you that the fee is not quite that expensive. Also, there is a fair amount of economic diversity feeding into Marcus. I promise you not all Marcus kids are rich. That is a mistaken belief.
See why don't other LD Bell band members show this much respect ! Good Luck in the rest of Marching Season and Love this year's ( 2013) show Bell has...I got to see y'all perform when our football teams met (Irving High School) and I was full of envy lol. Good Luck (:
This show was super complex and very well performed, so I liked it:) I just think that it wasn't exciting or loud enough... but i guess it was because it's a state year.
but its not just about drill. They sounded like a sit down band and almost all of their sets looked near perfect so they won. Its over and done so why complain?
Marcus out smart us all including bell very easy drill but with more time in hand they polish there music pitch and sound ....and this is coming from a band member of the L.D. Bell band
All I have to ask is... Who is the band director for this marching band?.. This high school band is perfect. Not one person was out of step or out of place. All of the pictures on the field were perfect. The band was not out of tune. The colorguard performed their routine effortlessly. This marching band should be in BOA Grand Nationals every year. I consistently find nothing wrong with their marching shows. The VANITY FAIR show was SPECTACULAR. This band is simply F_A_B!!!
i never enjoy marcus' shows... this year is no exception. their show is extremely boring and doesnt seem to stick out very well amongst the other great texas 5A bands... but the judges dont look for exciting shows. they marched and played their show extremely well, so congrats on winning and all of your hard work!
Jordan Tidwell Because they can afford better staff....yes they're great, but the fact that they have money gives them an advantage because they can afford better staff, instruments, and trips to gain interest of non band students who might join band later.
LD Bell's show was terrible last year lmao...You guys stood still half the time..Marcus deserved the right to be state Champions... "Very Easy Drill" can't be coming from an LD Bell Band member from the year 2012-2013... Just because you're an LD Bell Band Member doesn't mean you are over everyone..
As a freshmen, I went to compete in this exact contest with my band and had the joy to watch this exact performance those many years ago. Up until then, I only heard rumors about the legendary Marcus HS and their intense marching band program from the upperclassmen. Seeing what #1 looked and sounded like absolutely floored me.
Jeremiah, Marcus has a wonderful leader who strives on teaching the band students to respect all bands and band members because the common goal is making great music come to life on the field. As band Parents we cheer for all bands out there performing because we see the hard work, effort, and energy many of you put into your shows. There is Magic on those fields when you all play!
Even watching this show 9 years later, so clean. Amazing.
I go to Harlingen high school and I can say gladly that we lost to this amazing band this drill is almost perfect
I am a freshman, this was my first year going to state. When I saw them perform, I couldn't believe how amazing a marching band performed. I thought we were good. But damn they were great, can't wait for next state year!
Marcus' drill for this show was certainly easy, but they were a lot more exposed musically (ex: 1:20 3:59 7:52 8:24), and the fact that they sounded incredibly good musically (and marched the drill cleanly) is what made them stand out. Plus, Marcus could have gotten big-headed and messed up on the drill (I bet that they knew that this was easy drill).
But they knew better, and so they marched it as clean as possible.
We love all the other bands too you guys are great
Thank you for this excellent recording, the quality was superb! I don't know this band at all but they have a great instructor as the clean lines show. Lovely music and I like shows with a lot of substance over flash! I came from the Lincoln Marching Patriots in Sioux Falls, SD and we have a similar philosophy. Excellent job band and staff!
I love this show! the first statement of toccata gave me chills! i love being in Area B because i always get to see them and their AMAZING SHOWS!!!! great job guys! ~Martin Hs senior
The guard work is really great, even the double flag work is pretty clean !!
My directors went to the competiton, and they said all the others were impressive but none stuck out like Marcus did. Congrats and i love this show :)
this is my favorite marching band performance
The mark of sheer excellence in this show is the "time factor"! There is so much content, variation, and composition that the show is over MUCH too soon!! Performance levels of this group is off the chart!
AND - no, I am not a band parent of a Marcus performer! Actually, I don't even live in Texas... Georgia resident here. And before any interstate bashing, I have also been a judge for over 20 years! This, plus exposure to the programs @Avon, Tarpon Springs, Choctawhatchee, and Lassiter.
Congratulations Marcus Band on your fourth consecutive 5A state marching championship!!! You guys are amazing!!! Keep up the good work!!! :o)
I love the show so much, it was hard to learn it but at the end it's all worth it I love my band
Masterful teaching happening there...and the kids are amazing performers. So many good things...kudos to all involved.
This makes me miss marching band. Truly phenomenal. Great show. I love when they spell out "BACH"
Once i watched your show i realized that you guys have the potential and talent to all time champs, congratulations Marcus High School
Drum Major of Bel Air High School Big Red Pride Marching Band of El Paso, Texas
This is awesome! Greetings from the Czech Republic!
Favorite show this year. I feel honored to have gotten to watch it twice at BOA Super Regionals :)
I find it kinda of humerus that the people that SHOULD hate the Marcus High School Marching Band (for example Bell, Hebron, Reagan, Woodlands, CTJ, etc) don't. Why??? Because as competitors we see that they put as march hard work and effort into their show as everyone else and what they do is truly amazing. Say what you want but from the field view of that ensemble they sound and look spectacular.
I am NOT nor never was a member of Marcus, I was or am a member of one of the bands listed above.
@ThatBunsGuy Well obviously the judges didn't sleep during the show since you know they won by a margin of 12 POINTS so don't hate appreciate that you got to see one of the best bands in the country
All about director expectations. Can't imagine how much time they spend and everyone attitudes.
This show is awesome, I hope we meet at BoA again this year :) -member of the round rock high school marching band
Part 1: Tocatta in D minor
Part 2: Fugue in D minor
Part 3: Air from Orchestral suite No. 3
Part 4: Cello suite No. 5
All by J.S. Bach
Not sure how anyone can be bored by watching a super excellent band perform the classics. I guess if they had played Lada Gaga and danced like the Rocketts those "bored people" would have been happy. Marching band is extremely difficult and complicated. While no big fan of Marcus, i recognize the genius of their music program.
amazing opener. but stunning show all around. so clean >_<
keep up the good work, marcus!
Actually "Gilded Melodies", not "guilded". Different definition. "Gilded" is just a references gold. The gates, etc. are gold. More an effect/reference majesty of Bach's music than a story to be told. Bach was a royal composer. Also, (and I don't have any idea if Ms. Drinkwater was thinking about this), the gates allude to pipe organ pipes. There is a youtube video of an organist playing this music. When the camera pans up to those 64 ft. pipes, can't help but "see" those gates.Majestic!
Member of the Anderson High School Marching Band from Austin, TX. We finished 17th in the State of Texas back in 2010.
Yes this band sounds great, I just wish their biggest step size wasn't 16 to 5.
You guys gave an awesome performance, better than ours lol anyway congratulations
Bel Air High School Band Member from El Paso, TX
Big Red Pride!!
There tone is amazing, they sound like a sit down band. If they had went to BOA in 2012 I'm sure they would have won it all.
i was fooled. absolutely wonderful guys. thumbs up.
It's so clean, it's like watching an animation of the show...
Brilliant Show
I remember competing against these guys at Plano Drumline Competition this year. Their show is awesome
Director is Amanda Drinkwater. She's an amazing director and has a great group of assistants working with her.
I was honored to see my some of my friends at marcus high school's band win the state marching band contest, although I kinda wish midlo made it to state as well
aahh BOA, I remember winning state the first time in 06. that was my senior year. good year for Marcus, seems like they're still doing a good job. Def. glad I was a part of it for all 4 years.
Yes, you're correct. Bell doesn't march freshman, but that's because we're a 3 year high school. And whether Marcus marches them or not, they're still an incredible band! It's an honor to compete against them each year(: Cant wait for this year!
ummmm, at BOA SA, Richland was 13th in the visual caption. CT Johnson, 5th. and Marcus tied for 1st.
amazing!!! :-)
greatings from austria!
People need to stop hatin on them their show is really something special people are just drinking that haterade
Bell has had it's turn as have many other bands. Marcus parents are the only ones who stand and clap for EVERY band (even Bell) when they compete. How many band parents can say that? And God bless the ones who do, because they understand that ALL bands work hard to get there. No one is going to bend over and kiss anyone's behind. It is likely those who "think" they are the best, generally fall short of being the best.
My boyfriend is out there! He plays the euphonium!
Key to their success: hard work...and Amanda Drinkwater.
I'm from Haltom High and I've despised and envied Marcus for their greatness. I dont hate them. I know how hard they work, but if every top marching 5A school had all that money per student to each get private lessons and equipment, etc... We'd all be pretty spectacular.
That's just it about musicians. You don't hate your competition unlike in athletics - you respect them and hope they do well (but not too well).
ya but judges don't care how easy the drill is they look at how clean it is
The music that starts at 4:00 is Fugue, by J.S. Bach
Good eye, MrTfcdude - there is a feature like that in every Marcus show. Watch the 2010 State show to see the flute player thrown into the air.
It was close between Marcus and The Woodlands. They are both very good. We'll see what happens next year! The Woodlands is kicking it into high gear!
LIKE THAT DRUMLINE. THAT COLORFUCKINGGUARD. FUCK FUCKING BRASS. I cant, Why.
It would be hilarious of Coppell's and Marcus' band directors were best of friends, although, I wouldn't be surprised...Oh and this show? I loved it. -CHS Band Member
I don't mean to offend you. Marcus clearly has had the best performance. I personally know one of the judges and he said it was no contest.
Out of curiosity, what do top bands such as Marcus, L.D. Bell, and others think of the. Berkner High School band? For the past three years we've always been up there, but never on top. I'm curious to what other bands think of when they see Berkners name. -Junior trumpet player at Berkner
I would like to see what Grand Nats would look like if every BOA San Antonio and Texas State finalist went. It would be insane.
I am a Haltom grad and I wanna say that marcus had a good show this year but Haltom 2013 is going to be pretty good
just checked out Richlands show, no wonder how 5 different set of judges, placed u guys where they did.
Go watch Coppell High School's show. You'll be knocked off your feet. Richard Wagner. No props needed. They have Dedication. Passion. You'll jaw will drop.
This was a fantastic show! But to be honest since I have marched in this show and the show from 2 years ago(Illuminaries) I still think the show 2 years ago was better! Congrats Marcus gonna miss y'all!
I Love this show..
Cried so hard though when NMHS only got alternates
I thought our show was pretty hard /:
Again i love Marcus.
PLEASE POST MARCUS 2014 SHOW
Marcus Freshman do get to march. It all depends in the block situation. I'm a freshman and I'm marching this season:)
As a parent of a Marcus band member, I can assure you that the fee is not quite that expensive. Also, there is a fair amount of economic diversity feeding into Marcus. I promise you not all Marcus kids are rich. That is a mistaken belief.
See why don't other LD Bell band members show this much respect ! Good Luck in the rest of Marching Season and Love this year's ( 2013) show Bell has...I got to see y'all perform when our football teams met (Irving High School) and I was full of envy lol. Good Luck (:
I was here!!!! WOOP WOOP!!! 20th baby!
If they perform in a public venue, it's fair game.
Can't wait for grand nationals this year
That was a pure work of art!
I was there and Marcuse won!!!!!
WOW! Awesome drill! So exquisite and entertaining.
This show was super complex and very well performed, so I liked it:) I just think that it wasn't exciting or loud enough... but i guess it was because it's a state year.
That Tablet is bright, it glared off of that guys head.
@kwanzaaburson123 They came in first. Marcus has placed first at the UIL State Contest since 2006.
but its not just about drill. They sounded like a sit down band and almost all of their sets looked near perfect so they won. Its over and done so why complain?
because if you aren't a member of their band program how do you know how much it costs?
Hey look it's Marcus :D
They won the moment the moment they took a breath...
what place did Richland get at BOA? state?
I love bands that form a formation like so,but then again its kind of hard to see what they are trying to make.
That two flag colorguard effect is what I'm referring to
Woodlands did pretty good as well.
awesome.
Marcus out smart us all including bell very easy drill but with more time in hand they polish there music pitch and sound ....and this is coming from a band member of the L.D. Bell band
What is the piece with the oboe and English Horn duet called?
* love the show Bell has this year (2013)
I got chills
Amazing!
wow, bitter, your table for one is now ready!
Dang 13th at state? And you said Marcus' show was boring? Okay tough guy its obvious who was better
All I have to ask is... Who is the band director for this marching band?.. This high school band is perfect. Not one person was out of step or out of place. All of the pictures on the field were perfect. The band was not out of tune. The colorguard performed their routine effortlessly. This marching band should be in BOA Grand Nationals every year. I consistently find nothing wrong with their marching shows. The VANITY FAIR show was SPECTACULAR. This band is simply F_A_B!!!
i never enjoy marcus' shows... this year is no exception. their show is extremely boring and doesnt seem to stick out very well amongst the other great texas 5A bands... but the judges dont look for exciting shows. they marched and played their show extremely well, so congrats on winning and all of your hard work!
Lol exactly why the are champions no fancy props just good music.
Does anybody know the name of the music that starts at 4:00 it's so catchy! :)
I like how you put " -LD Bell member" like it's supposed to mean something...
are you a student of this band program?
whats the name of the song?
very nice
Always the big bands with a lot of money :/
sad but the truth
For state big bands compete seperately from other bands, so not necessarally...
John Smith My band is 6A yet we're the size of a 3A band, so not really the case
+rJUSTINr1995 Money really only helps with props. Marcus is just an amazing school with amazing staff...
Jordan Tidwell Because they can afford better staff....yes they're great, but the fact that they have money gives them an advantage because they can afford better staff, instruments, and trips to gain interest of non band students who might join band later.
LD Bell's show was terrible last year lmao...You guys stood still half the time..Marcus deserved the right to be state Champions... "Very Easy Drill" can't be coming from an LD Bell Band member from the year 2012-2013... Just because you're an LD Bell Band Member doesn't mean you are over everyone..