Hillsborough High School will welcome competing bands from New Jersey and North Carolina for the 22nd annual Marching Raiders band festival on Saturday, Oct. 10.
The festival is hosted by the Hillsborough High School Marching Raiders, who compete in the U.S. Bands circuit, as well as Bands of America. The Raider Marching Band performs their show at halftime during home football games and as a pep band during away games.
The Raider Marching Band Festival takes place on Saturday, Oct. 10, at Hillsborough High School, 466 Raider Blvd. Gates open at 2 p.m., with a competition step off time at 3. Ticket cost $10 for general admission, $8 for senior citizens and students with ID, and free for children 5 years old and younger.
Competing will be bands from Franklin, Hopewell Valley Central, Manalapan, Roxbury, Scotch Plains-Fanwood and South Brunswick high schools, as well as Pinecrest High School from Southern Pines, N.C. More schools may join by show time.
The host Hillsborough Raider Marching Band will perform in exhibition following the last competing band, at about 5:20 p.m.
The marching bands are judged against other ensembles within their category (based on the number of marching musicians). Each competing band is assigned a 15-minute time block during which they are required to enter the field, set up props and equipment, perform (amaze the crowd) and exit the field. Weeks of intense practice and rehearsals precede competitions to achieve the highest level of performance as possible, musically and visually.
Vendor booths offering candy & air grams, a 50/50 raffle will be available. Homemade foods, such as soups, meatballs, ziti, hot dogs, burgers and baked goods can be purchased from the well-stocked concession. Hot and cold drinks are also available all day.
