March Moments 2009 : March 14 - Indoor Shows, Chapter 1

March 14 - Indoor Shows, Chapter 1
by JoAnne Parente


This moment came to me courtesy of Jimmy Pic, who sent along some audio files of the corps from the 1973 Season.

Marching in the NJJCGEA (National Judges Junior Color Guard and Ensemble Association - NJA for short), a good number of our shows were split in two. The first half of the evening was devoted to the color guards, with the time after intermission filled with ensemble competition.

Listening to the NJA Chapter 3 and All-Chapter audio recordings, I was flooded with memories of how supportive we all were of each other. Whether it was any of our three guards or the ensemble on the floor, the rest of us were all there in the stands. We collectively knew when to hold our breath and watch or listen, and when to scream appreciation for a part of drill or music that was difficult or critical to the outcome of the performance.

Up until now, I don't believe I've thought all that much about how often many of you just traveled to shows to cheer the rest of us on. The Saints Guard had the most shows of all during the winter season - even when Sematics, Phase III, and the ensemble weren't competing (like when we marched out of circuit), you all made the bus trip with us.

Support breeds confidence. Confidence breeds success.

Thanks for being there.


Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.

All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!