Band to start rehearsals

By Donnie A. Lucas

The Ragin’ Red Lion Band will start preparing for the 2022 marching season on Monday, July 18 in the band hall with rehearsals for percussion and the pit crew.

Percussionists who stand on the sideline, known as the pit, will meet 12:30-2:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday, with the drum line scheduled for 3:00-5:00 p.m.

Students who want to start preparing for all-region tryouts in December can also come next week.

Rehearsals for percussionists and the pit will continue at the regular time July 25-28. Brass and woodwinds will start practicing 6:00-8:30 p.m. starting July 25.

The groups will combine for full band rehearsals Aug. 1-4 and Aug. 8-12 from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m.

Summer band practices will conclude on Monday, Aug. 15, with regular morning practices beginning on the first day of class Aug. 17.

“I’m excited and ready to get started learning this year’s show and music,” director William Vaughan said. “We are expecting to march 40 kids plus a pit crew of five this year. We will also have a few alternates this year.”

The 2022 fall show is entitled “Shine,” with music arranged by Luke McMillan of Abilene and marching drills by Rodney Gurley of Lubbock ISD.

The band will make its first appearance at the annual hamburger supper at the Bank Park on Monday, Aug. 8. The band group picture will follow the hamburger supper.

There will be a meet-the-band performance at the football stadium on Aug. 22 to introduce individual members of the group. The band will march and play the first half of the contest show for parents and fans.