SGHS Media Reporter- ELIJAH SANDERS
Southern Gap Soaring Eagle Marching Band students recently had the opportunity of a lifetime when they took part in Virginia Tech’s “Be an MV for a Day” experience, joining the Marching Virginians for an unforgettable day of music, friendship and Hokie spirit.
Sixteen Southern Gap students participated in the special event, which allowed high school musicians to experience what it is like to be a member of a college marching band. Through a sign-up process, students earned the opportunity to spend the day alongside members of the Marching Virginians, learning, performing, and getting a firsthand look at college music life.
Representing the Soaring Eagle Marching Band were Paris Sanabria (saxophone), Elijah Sanders (trumpet), Rachel Tackett (drum major), Abby Miller (snare), Nathanial Stiltner (snare), Natalie Lester (color guard), Eli McNeil (trumpet), Mia Sanders (color guard), Kyrie Taylor (tenor saxophone), Jennilee Deel (clarinet), Gwen Woods (mellophone), Brianna Adkins (clarinet), Logan Belcher (trombone), Chelsey Endicott (color guard), Emma Hale (baritone saxophone), and Zoey Owens (clarinet).
The day began at the Virginia Tech Performance Studio, where the students warmed up and practiced alongside the Marching Virginians. They also had the opportunity to eat with the college musicians, talk with them, and learn more about their experiences as members of a collegiate marching band.
But the highlight of the day came when the Southern Gap students joined the Marching Virginians as they made their way through the tunnel and onto the field at Lane Stadium. Walking out beneath the bright stadium lights in front of a roaring crowd gave the students a memory they are unlikely to forget.
The performance included music from artists such as Beyoncé and Jay-Z, along with the crowd favorite “Hokey Pokey.” For these young musicians, performing in such an iconic college football atmosphere went far beyond simply playing music.
Throughout the day, students formed friendships with Marching Virginians and gained valuable insight into college life, music programs, and the possibilities that await them after high school. For some, the experience even helped influence their future college decisions.
The students returned home with plenty to say about their experience.
“We had a great time!” Chelsey Endicott shared, while Jennilee Deel enthusiastically added, “I can’t wait to come back next year.”
The experience provided much more than a day of performing. It allowed Southern Gap musicians to see firsthand where their passion for music could take them and to connect with other students who share that same passion.
The Soaring Eagle Marching Band is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to participate in “Be an MV for a Day.” The experience brought students closer to music, introduced them to new possibilities, and created memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.
From the mountains of Buchanan County to the bright lights of Lane Stadium, the Southern Gap Soaring Eagle Marching Band continues to soar.
