TOWAMENCIN- This past Saturday evening, North Penn’s very own Marching Knights took to Crawford stadium to host their annual home show, “Knight of Sound.” “Knight of Sound” functioned as an independent marching band competition, inviting seven bands from throughout the region to perform in addition to an exhibition performance by the Knights.
“Knight of Sound” has traditionally been a very exciting night for the North Penn music community as many alumni and former Knights come out to see the fall show for the first time on their home field. It also allows community members to get a taste of what the competing world of marching band is like, viewing some of the best bands in the region.
The crowd that packed the home stands Saturday night was a mixed one, from seasoned parents to first-timers. It was easy to spot the music directors and techs scattered throughout the audience as they looked on with expert eyes, watching each step, line, and rifle toss to evaluate the performance. The real judges were on the field, however, darting in and out of lines with their handheld recorders in order to provide critiques and award points to the competing bands.
The exciting evening was filled with shows that took influence from a variety of music, from the soundtrack of the award-winning movie “A Beautiful Mind,” to the historical compositions of Aaron Copeland. As the night drew to a close, caption awards were given in addition to a rating of overall Grand Champion. Spring Ford High School took home caption awards for high auxiliary, percussion, overall effect, as well as the Grand Champion trophy, while Pennridge High school earned the award for best crew. The awards were presented by senior officers of the Marching Knights along with administrators Mr. Mike Britcher, Ms. Amy Schwartz, and Mr. Burt Hynes.
“Our job was to defend our turf and we did it. It was the best performance we’ve had this season,” commented senior flute section leader, Morgan Murphy, when asked about the Knights’ own performance.
It was an emotional night for the Marching Knights’ senior members as they performed their very last “Knight of Sound” show. Speaking to band members and staff alike following the performance, it was evident that the long hours of hard work leading up to it made the night a huge success. “Knight of Sound” was only the beginning of an exciting fall schedule for the Knights, however, as they continue on to Spring Ford High School’s “Tournament of Bands” Saturday, October 11th.