Marching Warriors Top Competition at Morton Invitational

The award-winning Lincoln-Way West Marching Warriors began their competitive season this past Saturday, September 13, with a top performance at the Morton High School Marching Band Invitational.

The Marching West Warriors placed first in class A competition with a score of 62.85. East Peoria High School placed second and Farmington High school placed third. Victor J. Andrew High School was named Grand Champion overall.

In addition, the Marching Warriors took home the caption award for Best Guard, Best Percussion and Best Winds. The West band also was able to give a special exhibition before the finals competition on Saturday evening.

“This was a great first outing for the Marching Warriors. All the students have been working incredibly hard all summer, and it is rewarding for them to finally perform the show in competition!” stated Cary Ruklic, Band Director and Music Department Chair.

The Morton High School Marching Band Invitational hosted 11 bands in three categories, class A, class AA, and class AAA. The Invitational was held at Morton High School in Morton, Illinois with the host band performing in exhibition.

The 52 members of the Lincoln-Way West Marching Warriors are led by drum major Charlie Pavlak, his second year in the leadership position.

The title of the Marching Warriors’ 2014 production is “Seven.” Each section of the show encompasses a different aspect of the number seven. Movements of the show include “Lucky Number 7,” “7 Deadly Sins,” “Colors of the Rainbow,” and “Luck be a Lady,” from Guys and Dolls, as well as original music composed by Craig Fitzpatrick. The visual design is by Michael Lentz.

The Marching Warriors also performs their competitive show during half time at each home football game.