- May 1, 2024
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It is the one band I’ve seen capture the undivided attention of opposing supporters and band members during the game and halftime. And at halftime, this band causes fans to opostpone their trips to the concession stands and restrooms to hear and see the latest music and moves. This music machine is the Mainland band.
I’ve taken in many high school football games, but, when I covered the Bucs for the first time two years ago, the band made me do something I’ve never done before or since – except for Mainland. While the Bucs – the best football team in the area – were playing exceptionally well on the field, the band had hijacked my attention off the field.
I had never seen anything like it on the prep level. I knew every song – current or classic – and the members of the band had movements for every key. I couldn’t keep still, but I still had to maintain my cool.
So what does the band do in order to separate itself from the others? The band practices twice as much as most other high school bands. And, according to band director Johnny Mims, it’s all worth it, when he and the band see how the players react to the music.
“They thrive off our music,” he said. “It’s very important that we’re on point and doing what we need to do, so we can help our team win.”
The band is composed of the musical instruments, the color guard, the Lady Bucs, the flag girls and the majorettes. They all play their part to make the Mainland game an entertaining performance – on and off the field.
When it comes to his band, Mims held no punches when he said this: “You’re not going to find a high school band as good as we are. We work very, very hard. We sound good and look good – all the time.”
If you’ve never experienced this band, treat yourself to an event this season.
