HHS Marching Band Performs at West Point

The Harrison High School Marching Band, Color Guard, and Majorettes had the honor and privilege of performing at the historic U.S. Military Academy at West Point in Michie Stadium. The Huskies, along with another area high school band, performed with the famed West Point Band and the Cadet Pep band during the halftime show of the Army vs. Hawaii football game on September 15th.

“The students had the opportunity to interact with the renowned West Point Band and the Cadet Pep band musicians and receive direct and individualized feedback from them during the rehearsal,” HHS Marching Band Director Deanna Loertscher said.

“The students also participated in a workshop with internationally renowned percussionist Jeff Prosperie,” she said. “Master Sergeant Propserie performed for the students, talked about the history of military music performance tradition, and answered many student questions. As a fun fact, Master Sgt. Prosperie holds the “oldest percussion gig in the US” which was first added to the Army ‘s professional roster by George Washington.”

The Huskies were given an extensive guided tour of the campus by two cadets and provided the Harrison students with insight into the daily life of a West Point cadet – including a tour of the dining area and a walk near the dormitory area. The Harrison students also saw pieces of the Hudson Chain, which prevented the British from sailing up the Hudson during the Revolutionary War, Trophy Point, “The Plain” (which was hosting a large exhibition of military equipment, helicopters, and other machinery), and the “Beat Navy” tunnel.

“It was a really cool experience!” said HHS Majorette Nicole Detlefts. “I love how we were able to have a tour of the campus and really enjoyed that the tour was given by people who attended the school.”

The HHS Matching Band, Color Guard and Majorettes performed “Can’t Stop the Feeling” and “Sweet Caroline” as part of the halftime show in front of an audience of over 30,000 people. The also saw The Cadet Review, -a militaristic marching exercise, parachute jumpers landing with precision on the 50-yard line, helicopter flyovers, the tradition of the cadets in the stands, and cannon fire during touchdowns.

“I was so excited for West Point because it allowed me to see what one of the highest level marching bands looks like,” said HHS percussionist Shai Gropper. “The feeling was so intense.”

The Army Black Knights beat Hawaii 28-21!!

Photos courtesy of Debbie Feldman