Spartan Band hits one high note after another

While Mountain Brook athletes earn well-deserved praise on the field and on the court, there’s another group that’s bringing home the glory. 

The Mountain Brook High School marching band has earned praise for its crowd-pleasing show, “Back To Cali.” The show, a fun mix of California-themed music, features everything from the Beach Boys to the Red Hot Chili Peppers to a dancing shark. 

And, in two separate competitions this fall, music judges agreed. 

During the annual Sparks In The Park marching festival, held Sept. 26, the Spartans took away first-place honors in its division, with superior ratings for each caption. The color guard and Dorians also earned first-place marks in their division. 

The Spartans struck again at the Pride of the Valley Marching Band Competition on Oct. 10. 

The band earned superiors in every category, with percussion, Dorians, and Drum Major Millie Livingston being singled out with first-place honors. According to band director Jason Smith, the awards were hard earned.

“Every July, we start practicing eight hours a day, and this is where it pays off,” Smith said. “While there are larger marching bands in the area, there isn’t one that works harder.”

Although football season has wound down, the band’s work is far from complete. A full year of practice and concerts are ahead. Most recently, the band played its fall patriotic-themed concert Nov. 9.

-Submitted by Chris Goldschmidt.