The Blanco Panther Band has been busily preparing for upcoming marching season.

“We’ve been working long hours in the heat since August 1st preparing for this,” said band director Brian Hecimovich. “We’ve exploded at the seams, adding 26 eighth graders to the band.”

“Although half our band will be new marching students, the 8th grade band members have responded with lots of hard work and dedication. The upperclassmen have welcomed them with open arms.”

The Band has its work cut out for it, as it prepares itself for the Region 12 marching contest, scheduled for October 13 at East Central High School in San Antonio.

“This year’s show is a Latin show featuring the classic marching band Latin tune Malaguena, which we opened with at the Canyon Lake football game,” said Hecimovich. “Last week we added a Michael Buble’ tune called Sway and closed with a rousing tune titled El Eumbanchero.”

“This theme was chosen by this year’s Seniors from an arrangement of themes.”

Hecimovich was quick to give credit to both the Booster Club and to assistant band director Brandon Aly.

“The Band Boosters have been working especially hard outfitting all these new band students in marching and casual uniforms, as well as preparing the football concession stand (along with the football boosters). We are grateful for their continued support!”

“Mr. Aly has taken on four new students to the Drumline this year, putting in many extra hours learning extra cadences and developing fundamentals for Marching Band Drumline.”

“He does a lot of behind the scenes work and is a crucial part of the band program. Quite frankly, I don’t know what I would do without him!”

“Our Seniors, Leadership Team, and Drum Majors have really taken control this season and shown the dedication necessary to become great!”

“We have high hopes this year, and with hard work we will make it to the top!”