For the first time ever, the Wylie Pure Gold Band has its eyes on the 5A state marching championship.

   In 2018-19 when the school district moved up from 4A to 5A, the band was introduced to much stronger and more skilled bands. Despite the changes, Pure Gold director Michelle Lessing is looking forward to their first possible state year in the new district. “I think it’s a challenge for those who have had experience in 4A that moved up to 5A,” says Mrs Lessing. “That being said, as a band we haven’t changed our abilities or our potential. The challenge is mainly in our minds.”

   This year, the band’s halftime performance is centered around the Haka, a tribal war dance performed by Māori warriors. Not only is this idea great for the marching field, but it also allows the students in the band to learn about and experience other cultures. “It’s hard to truly experience other cultures unless you go see it,” says Ms. Lessing. “This year we have the opportunity to do that through music and show other people different cultures through our performance. Hopefully we can really help people discover new things with our music.”

   Lessing says she is honored and excited for her first chance at the 5A state marching contest as a director. “We’re going to see a lot of good bands, but we can’t let that take away from the overall experience this season. I think that we could be entertaining for our home crowd every Friday night, but we could also be very competitive. These students have worked hard since the beginning of August, and as a director, it’s really exciting to see an entire band come together as a unit. We’ve all worked hard, and we’re all excited to attempt a state run. It’s going to be a fun challenge.”