Fresh ideas are being implemented this year for marching band as Band Director Robert Stegeman integrates some of his original philosophies.

“I can tell you we’ve got a lot of things in the works,” Stegeman said. “I hope that all of our students see and hear the band very frequently… I’m trying to keep the kids rooted in the tradition of band while at the same time do some new and fun and exciting things.”

The band is making an effort to raise their presence within the school and the community. They are making plans to play for local elementary and middle schools and there is talk of going out and playing at nursing homes. Also, they are increasing their level of participation in the cheering section by coordinating more with dance and cheer teams and moving their place on the bleachers during football games from being on the edge of the bleachers to between the students and parents.

“I want the band to be not just an active part of the cheering section but the most active part,” Stegeman said. “I want to use the band as a tool to bring our school together through pep assemblies and different events.”

The band is working to adjust to the new leadership, become a bigger presence in the school and prepare for the six competitions and four football games they will be performing at this year. They recently traveled to Iowa for two competitions which took place on Sept. 17.

“At first everyone was a little skeptical but we’re all slowly getting used to him, we’re all slowly coming together,” junior Christian Witte said.

This is Stegeman’s fifth year directing band. He previously directed in Miami, Oklahoma.

“I’m very happy to be here where teachers are supported, it’s a really great thing to be part of the team,” Stegeman said.