Pep Band
By Leah Linschied
Jan 28, 2008 at 10:53 am

Pep Band
By Leah Linschied

The thump of the bass, the ringing of the trumpet, the shrill voice of the flute, the sheer intensity of the band… nothing can beat the excitement of a good pep band. And a good pep band is exactly what we have here at Highland High School.

Led by band director Melissa Straka, pep band takes place at least once a week on nights when there is a basketball game in town. A large crowd is often present on these nights, not only to cheer on their players in hopes of acquiring a win that night, but also to hear the inspiring tunes played by the high school pep band. In fact, community members are encouraged and welcomed to find an instrument and join in with the band, adding their own talents to the talents of these gifted high and middle school students.

The pep band is not so much a “band” as it is a cheering section, pumping up our players during warm-up through timeless melodies and a strong beat. A basketball game without pep band is like a heart with no beat… without them, the players would perhaps lack the determination or the intensity to win their game.

Pep band is not only a great way to further students’ interest in music by allowing them to play up-beat and ageless songs, but also shows intense school spirit and support for the team playing. It is a great experience for all involved, from the crowd to the players to the band members.