SAN ANTONIO – Marching band members with the 2014 U.S. Army All-American Bowl were mentored by, and practiced with, soldier mentors from the United States Army Field Band at the Alamodome in San Antonio Jan. 1, 2014.
The marching band, composed of approximately 120 high school band members, is in San Antonio to perform the halftime show during the 14th annual U.S. Army All-American Bowl.
Army Field Band soldiers get the opportunity to share their skills with the young marching musicians while getting them ready for performing at the premier high school football event in the country.
“We're having a blast mentoring these kids,” said Sgt. 1st Class Brian Spurgeon, percussion player for the Army Field Band. “They are the best high school students from around the country.”
Amanda Gelbart, a piccolo player from Shadow Ridge High School in Las Vegas, thought it was a great experience to be a part of the All-American Bowl team.
“I think it's really cool getting to be surrounded by people who love band just as much as you do,” Gelbart said. “It's really cool that we get to play difficult music and challenge ourselves.”
Stephania Valencia, clarinet player with Boswell High School in Fort Worth, Texas, appreciated having the military members there to help.
“In music and band you need to have discipline, and in the Army you need discipline, so it kind of ties the two together,” Valencia said. “It's been super amazing. A very rewarding experience.”
The All-American Bowl features America's best senior high school football players competing in an East vs. West game. This year's game is scheduled Jan. 4, 2014.