The Student News Site of Westfield High School

Hi's Eye

The Student News Site of Westfield High School

Hi's Eye

The Student News Site of Westfield High School

Hi's Eye

Band marches for MLK

by Natalie Brennan

In light of the 50-year anniversary of Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, his message continued marching on as the marching band honored the journey of the civil rights movement and the man behind it at last Thursday’s debut half-time performance, “Dream.”

Said Marching Band Director Mr. Christopher Vitale, “Every year…the marching band staff holds several meetings where we brainstorm and plan the show for the upcoming fall season.”

Added Vitale, “We felt as though this concept was a great opportunity to pay tribute to an influential figure in our nation’s history as well as a great concept to build a show around.”

This is not the first time that the band has put together a show dedicated to one of America’s heroes; in fact, last year’s performance, “We Remember” was a tribute to hundreds of them. According to junior Drum Major Maria Lizzo, the show was dedicated to those who are currently serving in the armed forces and retired veterans.

Said senior Brass Section Leader Sam Krause:  “This year’s show is different for the reason that everyone can connect to it. There is prejudice in our lives…whether it be visible or not.  We all have experienced it in some way.”

According to senior Woodwind Section Leader Sara Hoerrner, this year’s theme was also chosen to reflect America’s evolution. Hoerrner hopes “that the audience enjoyed the performance and [was] able to reflect about how far the country has progressed and changed since 1963.”


​Said Vitale, “I think through narration clips of [MLK’s] speeches, which we have included in our show, alongside some quality music… we are well on our way to accomplishing our intention with this year’s marching band production of ‘Dream.’”

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