10 years in a row for Decorah HS Marching Band's top grade

Photos courtesy of Erv Yahr

The 118 member Decorah High School "Pride of the Vikings" Marching Band once again received a Division I rating Saturday at the Iowa High School Music Association's Marching Band Festival.  This is the band's 10th consecutive Division I rating and the 20th in the past 26 years.

"I was really proud of the band", said director Jim Fritz.  "It was a warm, windy day.  Just a couple minutes before we were supposed to step out to perform a woman passed out in the bleachers.  They brought in an ambulance for her and we needed to wait another 10 minutes or so.  It was pretty warm down on the field but the kids were all excited to perform." "We got great critique comments from all of our judges," said Fritz "they liked the show and the pride that the kids displayed."  "It has been a wonderful group to work with," commented Fritz, "probably one of my best ever!"  "I really want to thank the crowd that showed up last Friday," he continued.  "It was incredible to look into the bleachers and see over 300 people in attendance!  It really helped us prepare mentally for our performance on Saturday."

The band performed the music of Earth, Wind, and Fire including selections: In the Stone, Fantasy, Getaway, and September.  Their soloist was Junior Patrick Larson on trumpet.  The Drum Majors for the band are:  Claire Breitenstein, Kaitlyn Yahr and Colin Zidlicky.  Colorguard leadership team members are:  Emily Markee, Brittany Hudson, Kirsten Arneson, Brianna Carolan and Randy-Kate Canoy.  The directors include Jim Fritz,  Matt Cody, Liz Fritz, Jerry Dean, and Mark Kvale.  Their special volunteer/band angel is Karen Wyse,

The "Pride of the Vikings" marching band will give one final performance of their award winning show at halftime of Friday's final home football game of the season.  It will also be "Band Parent's Night," where the seniors and their parents are recognized on the track following the halftime performance.  It is also the Music Boosters' Chili Supper at the DHS Cafeteria.  Tickets may be purchased at the door for $5 with serving from 4:30 - 7 pm.