It's Friday morning rehearsal and the Dripping Springs High School Marching Band is learning new music.
Just three days ago, the Tiger Band stood at attention on the turf of the Alamodome in San Antonio, ready to put on the show of their lives.
"They announced third place and second place," said Junior Drum Major Laura Cripe.
It wasn't just the best performance in the region or area -- it was the best in the state.
"'And first place, congratulate this band. One, two, three... Dripping Springs!' And we're like 'Oh my God!,'" said Cripe.
"When they announced us, I was speechless. I started crying, and I couldn't believe it," said Head Drum Major Megan Alvarado.
State champs -- the best in Class-4A. These students haven't just made a huge accomplishment, but they have also made school history.
"It's our first year to win in 4A, and it's very exciting. And it feels amazing," said Alvarado.
To be the best in the state, every single note, every single marching step has to be flawless. That's why practice for this seven minute show started 16 weeks ago in July.
"We've been working really hard for a long time. Our goal as a band isn't to win or anything, but to be the best we can and be better every time we come out on the field," said Senior Drum Major Connor Jones.
Dedication goes from the field, to the classroom and onward through life.
"If we've achieved all this, this year -- I mean, this is just high school. Once we're out of high school, we can take that same level of success and expect it from ourselves every single time," said Cripe.
banddad said on November 6, 2009 at 4:03 PM
We are proud of the DS Band but think KVUE could have at least mentioned the three other Central Texas Bands that went to State Competition. (Hendrickson, LBJ and Hays) And two of those bands (Henderickson and Hays) went on to the finals. All of these students have very Rigorous practrices besides keeping up grades. They all did a wonderful job and all bands should receive a HUGE ROUND of APPLAUSE!!! KVUE I think you were sleeping on this one. What were you thinking since all these bands are in the viewing area and should all be recognized.
dsbandmom said on November 6, 2009 at 7:05 PM
Yes, all of our area marching bands were awesome this year, and I do want to give kudos to all of them. Every single band member worked hard and delivered beautiful performances. We enjoyed watching these great performances at the various contests. You all rock the stadiums! To our incredible Tiger Band students, I want to say again how very proud we are of all of you. All of that hard work, getting up early and staying up late, putting in the hours really added up in the end. What a fantastic experience for all of you, and we, the parents, are so pleased with your diligence. It was a great year, one which you all will cherish!