Cinnaminson High School’s Marching Band has had an exciting fall season thus far. This year, the band is competing in the open competitive class, which is a more advanced group than last year. Currently ranked fifth in the competitive regional bracket, the Pirates’ show this year is entitled “Troy” and is a visual and musical retelling of the rousing Trojan War. 

The Marching Band is continuously working hard under the leadership of Cinnaminson High School’s music director, Dr. Nicholas DiSalvio. His work, coupled with the dedication of the Marching Band’s members, are key factors in the success of the season. Due to the band competing in a more competitive and advanced bracket, they have had more responsibilities to manage. 

“Since our first competition, they’ve really stepped it up, and we’ve closed those gaps a lot,” DiSalvio said. 

Many members of the band have also taken up leadership roles to ensure that everyone is doing their part. Senior Robert Jacob noted the qualities of a successful drum major.

“A drum major tends to be someone personable, someone that’s able to talk to people, willing to make friends with anybody, and someone that knows what they’re doing and can stay focused as long as they can,” Jacob said. 

Jacob said he has grown as both a musician and a leader since his debut in the band back in eighth grade. While admitting that it is not always easy, the end product is “always worth it.” 

The band’s pit captain, senior Meran Warren, spoke similarly about the band’s resilience and ability to work together. 

“You see a lot of people constantly supporting other people and bands that they have never met or seen before, have no connection to,” Warren said.

At competitions or games, DiSalvio noted that the students enter a state of focus, and that this focus prepares them for a healthy competitive mindset, as well as helping the team maintain a balance of respect amongst other marchers. Similarly, the leaders also work together to ensure a smooth season. 

Warren and Jacob both highlight the importance of communication between team members and leaders. Warren emphasizes that communication leads to an organized performance, and similarly, Jacob feels that communication from the leader to the marcher encourages motivation as well. 

“I want to help correct people, make them the best player that they can be, the best marcher that they can be,” Jacob said.

As a whole, the Pirates’ Marching Band values leadership, hard work, and determination, and they do so while maintaining a respectful and engaging atmosphere. DiSalvio said he hopes to see more members join the band in the following years and encourages all CHS students to show up and support not only the band, but the football team and cheerleaders as well.

“We’re always really excited to perform for y’all. When we’re at the football games, you’re welcome to come out and watch us and join us,” DiSalvio said. “When we’re performing with the cheerleaders and the football team, you know, we have a really great relationship.”