West Bloomfield High School’s marching band hosted the MCBA (Michigan Competing Band Association) Field Day, on Saturday September 10th here at  West Bloomfield High School. Seven bands performed, including South Lake, Linden, Milford, Lakeland, South Lyon, Marysville, in addition to West Bloomfield.

Field Day was a great way for bands to get feedback from judges about their performances before the competitive season starts. Attendees found the event exciting, and a great way to see the show. It also provided an opportunity for judges to get in the swing of things once again, so that they are prepared for the competitive season.

Each band was given a maximum of 30 minutes to perform their set, and then received commentary from judges regarding their performance. After they’ve received the feedback, the bands reset and perform again. Judge commentary was recorded and sent to each band who performed. 

Marching band member Eleanor Goldkamp really enjoyed being able to talk to the judges on the spot right after the performance. Goldkamp said, “The feedback was really insightful and helpful for us to improve on our performances,” and looks forward to the competitive season.

           Director of bands, Chad Mielens, felt that Field Day had many advantages for the West Bloomfield Marching Band. Mielens said that, “Field day was a good experience for the whole competitive circuit, and gave the West Bloomfield High School band program great publicity.” This is the third time that West Bloomfield has hosted Field Day, and has been hosting invitationals here for over thirty years.

Field Day was a positive experience for the West Bloomfield Bands, and they cannot wait for a great season ahead of them!