The Roanoke College Maroon Regiment Marching Band was recognized with a best in show award by the organizers of the Roanoke Labor Day Parade.
The Aug. 31 community celebration was one of the first public performances for the brand-new band that just launched this year. The spirit-rousing group already boasts 45 members and counting, with performers in brass, woodwinds, percussion, color guard and dance sections.
“They were the talk of the parade, absolutely. People were dancing in the streets to their wonderful drumline and musicians,” said Kristy Vance, secretary-treasurer of the Western Virginia Area Labor Federation, which organizes the annual parade in partnership with America Works. “We were thrilled to include the marching band this year and hope they become a staple of the event.”
The marching band is debuting this fall alongside Roanoke College’s new football team and competitive cheer squad. Backers supported a campaign to create the programs and expand opportunities for talented students.
The marching band will next perform at the football team’s season opener against Hampden-Sydney College (JV). Kickoff will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 8, at Salem Stadium. Admission is free in celebration of the program’s first year.
The Roanoke Labor Day Parade, now in its 13th year, brings the community together in downtown Roanoke to celebrate the holiday weekend with music, floats and fun. The Maroon Regiment Marching Band was awarded the title of “Best Overall in Show” among this year’s participants.
“It has been a pleasure working with these musicians, dancers and color guard members as we build this new program,” said Terrell Smith, director of marching and spirits bands at Roanoke College. “Their dedication to their craft is certainly paying off. Great things are ahead!”
-The Salem Times-Register
