Pride of Merced

Out of four years, my proudest accomplishment has been consistent with me for as long

as I can remember. I am most proud of the Merced Marching 100 that I was lucky enough to be

apart of for so long. Through the band, I met so many new people, travelled throughout

California, and experienced so many things that normal people do not get to.

Band kids are different, they are weird, which is probably why I like it so much. Band

kids are not afraid to be themselves, to be different, or to stand out. We sing at the top of our

lungs, talk about the rhythmic patterns in modern music, and find any way possible to express

ourselves.

I was fortunate enough to perform with an extremely talented group of people. Our band

has always been over 120 people which makes it so exciting. It is even better to have so much

support from students and staff on campus because it makes our music so much better. Our band

has a lot of history in the community which always makes us want to perform with pride. After

all, we are the Merced Marching 100, the pride of Merced. We are invited to play all over the

community. Everywhere from convalescent homes, to grand openings of stores, to events held

Downtown. It is nice to be well-known, and greatly appreciated because there is a lot of work

that happens behind the scenes.

I have endured weeks of band camp in 100 degree heat, marching in step for miles on end

in full uniform, and played for so many hours; all while a metronome clicks for hours on end.

This was hard work, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. I owe my entire high school

experience to what such an amazing organization provided for me and I am proud of myself for

sticking with it and making my band director proud. The Merced Marching 100 is always happy

and proud to perform for such an amazing campus.