Betsy Band kicks off 2024-25 season

By Ron Marvel

Star Correspondent

The back-to-back Division II state champion Elizabethton High School Band got its season underway this week with band camp. One hundred fifty-five students braved the elements, including high temperatures, high humidity, and on-and-off rain showers and thunderstorms, which turned band director Jonathan Valentine into a part-time meteorologist.

The work and diligence the state champs possess were on display this week as they pushed through 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. days. Valentine shared the endeavor and diligence it takes to be a Betsy Band member. “It’s a tremendous amount of effort and commitment to be in the band because of the amount of muscle memory it takes to create an 8-minute show from scratch! It takes hard work, dedication, and a willingness for students to push themselves beyond what they think they are capable of,” Valentine said.

The camp also allows band members to build chemistry and friendships that last beyond the performances. In addition, it gives the band time to work in a large freshman class. “At band camp, we hope to get to know each other and set the expectations for the year. Student leaders are awesome at this, and even though it’s hot and long, they always have a ton of fun. We have some of the best students in the country, and they have worked hard to learn the first 2:00 of the show already!” Valentine stated.

Band camp will go through July 31 this year.

All photos by Ron Marvel

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