The West Springfield Marching Terriers and Concert Band, led by the band director Nathaniel Holesovsky and the marching assistant director Mrs. Sapowsky, visited Williamsburg, Virginia, from April 3 – 6, where students participated in the Heritage Festival Musical Competition. West Springfield High School earned itself silver in both the Marching Band and Concert Band categories.
The competition officially began on Friday, April 4, at Bethel High School in Hampton, Virginia. The Marching Terriers performed on the track next to the high school in full uniform despite the heat. Within the hour, the concert band, this time dressed in their all-black attire, then performed on the school’s auditorium stage. Their performances included “Sonic Pathways,” “El Zorro Rojo,” and “Blessing Wind.” After each performance, the judges weighed in and provide the band with useful feedback and advice for future performances.
An award ceremony was later held at Abbey Stone Theater in Busch Gardens on day three of the trip. The West Springfield High School’s Marching Terriers and Concert Band both earned silvers. Senior drum major, Joey Mastromatteo, said he was very proud of the band’s accomplishments. Each attendee also received a pin for their participation in the competition.
Of course, it was not all work and no play! While in Virginia, West Side band members and their chaperones enjoyed some local venues, such as eating barbecue at Rocco’s Smokehouse, touring historic Williamsburg, shopping at local stores, and exploring Busch Gardens amusement park. West Side’s band trip was, according to Paige Matteson, “upbeat and joyful,” an “amazing,” and, of course, victorious adventure!
