Oxford Charger Band Sets Two New High School Records During State Marching Championship

The Oxford Charger Band set two new high school records recently at the State Marching Championship.

The event was held at Pearl High School and OHS secured the eighth spot in the overall marching competition and a final competition score of 86.7 points out of a possible 100 points.

Oxford Charger Band Director Mel Morse said, “Clinching eighth place overall while competing against the eleven top marching bands in the state is a huge feat for our student band. This is definitely their time to shine.”

According to first year Band Director Morse, this year’s show is the hardest the students have ever performed and has the elements needed for them to compete against the best marching bands in the state.

“Now is definitely a time to celebrate our students because this is a huge accomplishment,” added Morse. Morse credits Jared Brownlee and Marsha Morgan for helping make the transition so successful.

“Also, former Band Director Mr. Mixon lead the way to marching excellence while the band was under his leadership and direction,” said Morse.

The theme of this year’s show is Cool, a music selection showcasing the original musical selections of “Discovering Cool,” “Observing Cool” and “Being Cool.” Morse describes the marching show as one with jazz-infused selections with a number of solos by phenomenal individual players.   “This is a big deal for many of our students,” said Morse. “Going to overall state marching competition shows the great life lesson: ‘You are entitled to the level of success your hard work pays for.’”

Morse says that band is another vehicle, like athletics or other student organizations, that allows Oxford High School students the chance to experience self-worth.

“Band is a student activity where our students learn the microcosm of life lessons, such as responsibility, accountability, and knowing that they are important,” added Morse.

For more information on the Oxford Charger Band, visit www.oxfordsd.org/OxfordBand.

Courtesy of Oxford School District.