Biddeford High School’s Marching Band has made history, winning the first-place trophy in the Division 1 category at the New England Scholastic Band Association (NESBA) Championship. Competing against top bands from across the region, Biddeford’s performance has earned them the title of Best Marching Band in New England on November 3, 2024.
Competing against 29 other high school bands from across the region, Biddeford also swept multiple individual awards, taking home titles for “Best Drum Major,” “Best Color Guard,” “Best Visual,” “Best Overall Effect,” and “Best Percussion.” This marks the first time in over 15 years that Biddeford has competed on the NESBA circuit.
The journey to this success was especially noteworthy as 23 of the band’s 37 members were new to marching band this year. “Their accomplishments are stunning, really,” said Michael Murphy, Biddeford High School’s Band Director. “I am so proud of them. They worked very hard.”
The band’s reestablishment is a story of resilience. Biddeford’s marching program was revived in 2019 after a decade-long hiatus. In 2021, facing challenges from the pandemic, Biddeford joined forces with the Old Orchard Beach Marching Band to form the Seacoast Marching Band. This collaboration allowed both programs to grow stronger, and by 2024, they were able to re-establish their individual bands. Sunday’s win highlights the strength of Biddeford’s renewed program and the commitment of its students and staff.
Superintendent Jeremy Ray commended the students and the Biddeford community, noting, “This is a testament to the perseverance and passion of our students and the unwavering support from our community. We are grateful for everyone who contributed to this achievement.”
The thrill of winning left a lasting impression on the students. “A lot of adrenaline goes through your body – you’re thinking, you’ve got to remember your music. It’s just a lot happening all at once,” shared band member Jhevari Mowatt. Fellow band member Glen LaRoche added, “I could feel my legs just shaking at the realization that we had done it. It was stunning.”
This win marks a significant milestone for the band, symbolizing the strength of Biddeford’s music and arts programs. The band’s hard work, dedication, and collective spirit continue to inspire the community, and they are proud to bring home the trophy to Biddeford, Maine.
