GLENVILLE, WV – The Glenville State College Pioneer Marching Band performed as an exhibition band at the 83rd Annual Mountain State Forest Festival “Jack Basil” Field Competition in Elkins, West Virginia on Saturday, October 5. The band performed for a large crowd of directors, students, family, and friends representing eleven high school marching bands.

“I am very proud of all of our students,” said Associate Professor of Music and Pioneer Marching Band Director, Dr. Lloyd Bone. “There are several details and potential issues when taking an entire marching band on the road. All of our students demonstrated tremendous teamwork throughout the day to help make for a highly successful performance and trip. Trips and performances of this nature promote and benefit all of GSC.”

Nikki English, a senior music education major and the uniform manager for the Pioneer Marching Band, reflects on the experience. “The Mountain State Forest Festival was a wonderful opportunity to gain experience and showcase what we can do as a band. We haven’t been able to go on a trip in quite some time, so this was fun, exciting, and well worth it. Our performance lit up the crowd, made them gasp, and made them laugh – that’s what we wanted! Thank you to Dr. Bone for arranging this wonderful opportunity. I’m glad the seniors this year were able to participate before their time at GSC came to a close!”

For junior music education major and drumline captain, Marcus Spinks, the experience was memorable as well. “It was a wonderful festival with plenty to explore and experience! Great food, great people, and an amazing parade! Also, all of the schools that competed in the marching band competition did a wonderful job and gave it their all. I’m excited for the next time I come to the Mountain State Forest Festival.”

“It felt nice to go somewhere and show what we can do as a marching band,” said senior music education major and clarinet section leader, Sarah Brunty. “It reminded me a lot of competing in high school – the adrenaline and nervousness of marching. I was proud of what we did.”