The phoenix is an immortal mythological bird that is reincarnated from its own ashes. This year’s Spartanburg High School halftime show is called “Phoenix Rising.” It is about a phoenix’s journey through life, death and rebirth. This show includes the songs “Set Fire to the Rain” by Adele, “The House of the Rising Sun” by The Animals and “Hurt” by Johnny Cash.
Bobby Cotter, director of the Spartanburg High School Marching Band, thinks that it is important to blend classical and modern music to draw students into the show.
“I enjoy the classical side of the house, but for me, being able to put more modern music on top of classical things to bring those two eras together is a very neat thing, and this show bridges that gap,” Cotter said.
From the perspective of a student, marching band teaches how to learn and perform music that they know and love, making the show more enjoyable. On the other hand, being a student sitting in the stands and hearing a song like “Set Fire to the Rain” is attention grabbing and draws the viewer in deeper to the performance.
Sydney Josey (12), drum major, Naomi Anderson (12), percussion leader and Harper Wilson (12) color guard leader, think that as seniors, “Phoenix Rising” aligns with their improvement and evolution from being in the marching band. This theme of development expressed by the phoenix can be applied to any age. From a first-year marching band kid who is ready to be born into a group where they are accepted and heard to a graduating senior who mentors and guides younger, less experienced members through the first few years. The phoenix is a symbol of perseverance and determination.
Wilson believes that it is meaningful to be able to lead younger students.
“Especially as one of the captains here guiding the girls, most of them their first time, it means a lot. Guiding them into their first halftime show and just having fun with it and getting to experience what Friday night life is all about,” Wilson said.
The size and success of a marching band depends on new members who work for four years to build a program. This show is in line with that idea.
Marching band is more than just a class in school, it is a community. It helps build endurance and personal awareness. Viking marching band members attend band camp in the summer where they start their training. They have rehearsal most days after school, some students take their practicing to the next level and hire personal tutors to help them excel outside of the classroom.
Josey practices outside of school with a personal coach.
“I have been practicing, and I also got a personal coach to help me with my clarity and to help me keep in tempo,” Josey said.
The Spartanburg High Marching Band will be performing in competitions throughout the season. Come see the halftime show, “Phoenix Rising,” at every home football game.
