GRANGER High School is introducing several campus changes this school year, including the return of a long-standing tradition. Granger has not fielded a marching band since the 1990s, making this year’s relaunch an historic milestone for the student body. For Lancers looking to join a club or try something new, marching band offers a way to showcase skills and build community.
Administration members are actively working to support the new program, which is taking shape under Mr. Spalka, the band director.
Spalka’s initial plan is to develop a short performance lasting about two minutes. In contrast, standard high school competitive marching band routines typically range from 7-10 minutes.
“We would be doing that. Our goal is to have fun, hype something up,” Spalka said. “Most of the kids in the marching band currently are either in orchestra or band. They either know an instrument or they’re learning to play one. We would like this to keep continuing and have it become a long-term kind of thing.”
The program is currently acquiring equipment and borrowing instruments from neighboring high schools while establishing independent fundraising plans.
Funding requirements vary significantly across school programs. Some competitive high school marching bands allocate up to $20,000 strictly for performance props, while custom uniform acquisitions can cost up to $60,000.
Spalka hopes to recruit 100 students for the ensemble. While about 90 students currently take instrumental music classes on campus, marching band participation remains voluntary.
The ensemble consists of three primary sections: drumline, color guard, and brass/woodwinds. Students who do not play an instrument can participate in color guard, which incorporates dance routines and flag choreography alongside the band.
Nae Meh (12) has played musical instruments since seventh grade.
“I’ve always wanted to be a part of a marching band and was a little sad knowing Granger didn’t have one, but I joined immediately when I found out they were trying to put one together,” Meh said.
Meh plays the flute and cello and currently performs on trumpet for the school mariachi ensemble and piccolo for marching band. She expressed excitement for upcoming athletic game performances and field shows.
“It’s a great experience for high school, and honestly it’s a historical moment,” Meh said. “If the young people join now, they can stay long enough to see actual uniforms and actually see the marching band be fully developed… since right now we’re barely starting everything off.”
Students interested in submitting music requests or joining the ensemble can visit room E-105.
