On a yearly schedule, like perfect clock work, the Highland Park Band Blue Out is hosted, giving a chance for the community, and the 8th grade band to come and support the football team during their game. This year, it took place Oct. 4 during the game against Red Oak high school.
During Blue Out the middle school gets to come play during the football game with the band. This shows the middle schoolers in attendance what it’s like playing in the Highlander Band, to hopefully inspire them to continue playing in band in high school.
“I think that they will enjoy what these middle school kids are doing, playing with the high school band and not being separated by grade level,” eighth grader Fritz Metcalf said. “Being able to collaborate on music and have a good time, might convince kids or parents to have their kids join the band.”
Both the Raider band, and the Highlander band enjoy getting to play together, especially the seniors that will be leaving at the end of the year. This allows them to see who will be succeeding them next year in the Highlander Band.
“When I was in middle school, I really loved getting to know the high schoolers.” Senior Drum Major Kaden Rice said. “I’ve just really enjoyed getting to know all the upcoming middle schoolers, like knowing who I’m going to be with for the next couple years and who will eventually replace me.”
Both the middle school and high school band directors work to plan the event and make sure their students are ready to play and perform together at half time. In fact, weeks of preparation go into their one performance. Both teams practice independently before the week where they have joint band rehearsals.
“Blue Out is an exciting time for all HP Band students,” Assistant Band Director at HPHS, Lindsay Pfaff said. “I have no doubt that has a major influence on Raider Band students joining the Highlander Band.”
Blue out had been a great way to bring the band together and show school spirit for many years. It allows not only the Raider and Highlander band to come together, but for the audience to come out and wear blue in support of the band.
“I think it definitely pumps everyone up. It’s just so much fun. Everybody puts paint on their face and has different chants and everything,” Rice said.
The event brings together students from across the community to support both the Raider and Highlander bands.
“This will be my fourth Blue Out here at HP and every year I look forward to seeing all of our band students in 7-12th grades interact and play music together. The camaraderie is wonderful and it’s truly a great experience for all of our students.” Pfaff said.
