MORTON, Ill. – They’re off, and almost ready to perform on the big stage.
The Morton High School marching band is in Indianapolis, preparing to perform at the Bands of America Grand National Championship, after what was called their best combined placement ever at a Super Regional Championship in Saint Louis a few weeks ago.
Co-director Craig Hatter tells WMBD’s Greg and Dan the planning that went into this year’s show, pretty much started after last year’s award-winning season.
“It’s just kind of making sure everything is interlocking,” said Hatter. “Where the kids go draws the eye in a certain direction. How the kids spin a flag, make sure the emphasis in the music is on the right part, the right beat, and things like that.”
Hatter says he knew early on his band would be as great as it is.
“They’ve weathered a lot,” said Hatter. “They were the first COVID class, kind of, when all the competitions were shut down. They didn’t have a true Freshman year. So, we knew this was something special for them, to end their competitive season and being Seniors on a really high note.”
The band won two other regional competitions, and the Illinois State competition in Normal.
The grand national championship continues the next several days.
