Traditionally, each year, the new Drum Major for the Marshfield High School marching band is chosen just after the parade in Marshfield Hills but before the start of the parade to the Veteran’s Park. This year was no exception except that Mr. Thomas kept them waiting just a little bit longer by making the announcement back at the high school!

With anticipation building, the students who tried out were lined up in the band room, waiting anxiously for the name to be called. Mr. Thomas praised each one of them for their efforts saying how difficult it is to prepare and perform this audition. But in the end, there can only be one and this year’s selection was sophomore Kate Muñoz.

Kate’s been in the percussion section of the marching band for two years and though she will make an outstanding drum major, she will be sorely missed on the quads. She joins Brian Spitler, who will start his second year as drum major next year and is an inspiration to all up and coming band members. Congratulations Kate .. see you at band camp in August!

And speaking of Parades, this year’s Memorial Day Parade went off without a hitch. Many people think this traditional Marshfield parade begins at the Fair Grounds on South River Street but actually the day starts much earlier for the High School marching band. After they report at 8:15 to the band room, they are bused up to Marshfield Hills for the first parade of the day, marching from the General Store, up Old Main Street to the Marshfield Hills Cemetery for a remembrance of those who have served. Taps is played and the National Anthem. It’s a typical home town parade with children on decorated bikes and a fire truck leading the way. Afterwards, band members are treated to donuts and juice by the North River Arts Festival Committee. (Always appreciated!)

If you’ve never caught this parade, it’s definitely worth getting up a little earlier for next year!