The Marathon High School Marching Band participated in Florida Atlantic University’s Band Day on Saturday, Nov. 22, joining the FAU Marching Owls and high school bands from across the state for a full day of rehearsal and performance.
The band departed campus early Saturday morning and traveled to Boca Raton, where students took part in sectional rehearsals with FAU band members, followed by a combined mass rehearsal. The day culminated with a performance during halftime of FAU’s football game against the University of Connecticut Huskies.
For many students, the experience marked their first time attending a college football game and performing alongside a collegiate marching band. Students described the opportunity as both exciting and inspiring.
One student shared, “It was really cool to work with a college-level guard and band during sectionals. Combining with other high schools and experiencing my first college football game with friends made it even more exciting.”
Seventh grader Samantha Lawrence added, “Everyone was really nice, especially the staff and color guard members who helped me when I didn’t understand the choreography. Overall, it was a very cool experience.”
Another student summed up the day by calling it “very fun,” adding that the bus ride home and food at the game were highlights.
The FAU Band Day provided Marathon High School students with a valuable glimpse into collegiate music programs while reinforcing teamwork, musicianship, and school pride.