July 23, 2003
Valdosta - The first week of band camp means back to the basics for the Georgia Bridgemen . "Students are learning the basics of music and marching," said Van Shelton, Assistant Band Director.
Every single step and note is a crucial part of their performance. It takes countless hours of marching, playing, and more marching to keep 360 kids in sync. "It's very difficult because everyone has to take every step together, stay in a straight line, and keep every note in key," said Brooks Garrett.
This year, their hard work's paid off. The people at Macey's noticed their talent, and invited them to take part in their Thanksgiving Day parade. Only 12 schools in the country are invited to participate.
"It's going to be so much fun," said Van Shelton. "We're staying for seven days, the kids are going to get a chance to see the big city, and some of them have never even been out of Georgia before."
Amanda Solberg is a senior this year and one of the band's drum majors. She says the trip to New York is the perfect ending to her band career. "It's going to be the biggest thing we've every done, and a great way to go out," said Solberg.
But the road to New York City won't be an easy one. For the next two weeks, its practice, practice, and more practice. But these kids say that's a small price to pay for this once in a lifetime opportunity.
posted at 1:45 by ashley.harper@walb.com
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2013 Worldnow and WALB, a Raycom Media Station. 
