Westfield Community Helps Keep Marching Band Strong As New Season Nears

WESTFIELD, NJ — The Westfield High School Marching Blue Devils are preparing for a new season, and program leaders say community support continues to play a key role in keeping the program running strong.

More than 100 students are expected to participate this year, according to band director Christopher Vitale.

The program brings together students in winds, percussion, and color guard to create a full field production that blends music, movement, choreography, and visual design.

Vitale said students are especially looking forward to getting started with this year’s show, building friendships, welcoming new members, and performing for the Westfield community.

“This year’s marching band is expected to include over 100 students,” Vitale said. “Students are especially excited about learning this year’s show, building friendships, welcoming new members, and performing for the Westfield community.”

This year’s production, titled “In Shape,” will explore geometric shapes through music, drill, choreography, color guard work, percussion writing, and visual effects.

Preparation begins well before the first public performances, with students taking part in mini-camps and rehearsals focused on marching fundamentals, music, choreography, and ensemble expectations.

Vitale said those early sessions are also important for helping build the group’s culture and supporting new members as they get acclimated.

“Our summer preseason camp that takes place in August is one of the most important parts of the season,” Vitale said. “During camp, students learn major portions of the show, develop endurance, strengthen their performance skills, and build relationships with one another. It can be demanding, but it is also one of the most rewarding parts of the year because students quickly see how much they can accomplish when everyone works together.”

The Marching Blue Devils will perform at home football games, community events, and competitions throughout the fall season.

Fundraising is also a major part of supporting the program each year. Funds help cover instructional staff, show design, music, choreography, props, equipment, uniforms, transportation, competition fees, and other costs tied to running a full marching band program.

Vitale said that support from families and the wider Westfield community directly impacts students and helps keep the program accessible.

“We are incredibly grateful for the continued support of the Westfield community,” Vitale said. “Whether people see the Marching Blue Devils at a football game, competition, parade, or community event, we hope they recognize the hard work, dedication, and spirit that our students bring to everything they do.”