By Michelle Colesanti
The Bloomingdale Rajun’ Bull Marching Band, directed by Jon Sever, stayed busy over the summer by performing in the Brandon Fourth of July parade. A month later the students were back at it for a week of band camp. Incoming freshman were welcomed and the band size grew to well over 200. A pep rally, “Meet the Bulls,” helped to usher in the new school year and to kick off the football season. The Rajun’ Bull band, along with members of the Crimson Guard, spent hours practicing after school to help perfect their marching performances. This year, the band will perform the music from The Eagles for the half time performance.
One of this year’s band captains, Taylor Fluty, was asked what she likes most about being in the band. “To me, it’s like one big family. I’m looking forward to spending my senior year with them. I will sincerely miss marching with my band family after I graduate,” she said.
It also takes a lot of behind-the-scenes help from the band parents, who help keep things running smooth throughout the year. Taylor’s mom, Amy Fluty, is involved in the band and said, “I agree with my daughter, the band does feel like a big family. It takes many hands behind the scenes to make everything work. It has been a great experience for us.”
Upcoming fall events include the band’s annual Homecoming BBQ on Friday, October 14. Alumni, parents, and students can enjoy a dinner before watching the football game and homecoming half time events. A Veteran’s Day concert is tentatively scheduled for Thursday, November 10. The band is preparing for a future trip to Europe in two years.
The schedule for the Friday night football games where you can enjoy the game and the band’s half time show: August 26 at Newsome High School, September 2 at Home (vs. Gaither), September 9 at Armwood, September 16 at Home (vs. TBT), September 30 at Home (vs. Durant; it is also middle school band night), October 7 at Plant City, October 14 at Home (vs. East Bay – Homecoming night and BBQ), October 28 at Strawberry Crest, and November 4 at Home (vs. Brandon – senior night).
For more information about the band, email Rajunbullfundraising@gmail.com.
