Indianamarchingfan

I agree that one or two individuals don't represent an entire program or band, and my thoughts about being unappreciative of your placement at contests were not even directed towards LD Bell specifically, but for all bands who do not appreciate the participation in great events like Grand Nats. Of course every band wants to be successful and win, that's human nature, my point however is any band member who feels like finishing second or third is "average or bad" is missing the whole point of marching band. Every band will "lose" at some point it how you react to not finishing first that truly shows which bands are classy and which are not. Unfortunately I have seen first hand some very poor sportsmanship and attitudes after bands who expected to finish higher than they actually placed and that is the type of attitude that she not exist ESPECIALLY at competitions such as Grand Nats. I admire LD Bell and the program I'm sure they devote much time and effort to being as successful as they have been. Whatever happens at Grand Nats. on Sat. will happen and I hope that every band irregardless of their placement is proud of their performance on the field and after awards.

I think that's pretty sad if true that students at LD Bell think finishing second at Grand Nats is only "average" and 3rd would be considered "bad". Do they not appreciate the fact that they get to even participate in the finals? Speaking as an Avon fan I can only say that we are truly appreciative to participate in such a great event and while it's great to do well, winning is not everything! Go Marching Black & Gold!

Have not seen Carmel yet this year, but have saw Lawrence Central, Center Grove, Ben Davis, Lake Central, Castle, Columbus North. I would consider Center Grove a darkhorse, and Lake Central has a very dynamic show. Ben Davis is as usual very strong and LC once again has awesome musicians. Lucas Oil's echo is probably like any other "domed" or indoor stadium, but seems much less that RCA dome that Lucas Oil replaced. I would think that any band whether it was their first year competing at GN's or 10th has they same chance depending on how well they perform on that night. Very anxious to see Marcus as they are new to GN's correct?

Not to sound biased but yes Avon does have an incredible show this year, and in my own humble hoosier opinion will be difficult to beat at GN's. However I have not seen the Texas bands except excerpts from their shows and realize they are also incredible and will give Avon and other Indiana bands all they can handle at GN's. It appears the Texas/Indiana band rivalry will continue. Best of luck to y'all.

Agreed, our state finals are this Sat. as well and that should also give an indication of how things stack up here. I realize our state finals and the differences in BOA judging, but generally the placement at our state finals and how the Indiana bands fair at Grand Nats. are reasonably close. Center Grove is a darkhorse, and as much as I hate to mention Carmel has been preparing all year. Lawrence Central has a very "unique" show, and Ben Davis and Lake Central should be competitive and possible finalists. I'm very curious about Marcus and LD Bell well what can you say about such a great program. I'll be cheering for my Black & Gold but again best luck to y'all!

Danpod, I agree with your conclusion that if Grand Nats were to be held in Texas (Alamodome) for example there would be an enormous number of Texas bands interested in participating. It would only be fair to have some sort of a selection process to limit the maximum number of bands from any one state, afterall that's what makes Grand Nats so interesting, the wide and diverse number of schools and states participating. I'm very familiar with the Indiana bands and their shows but look forward to seeing Texas bands as it is always the first time I have seen them at Grand Nats. Just curious who do you consider to be the favorite (if any) at Indy this year?

As a marching band fan from Indiana, I have to say that I do really admire many of the Texas bands, they are always awesome at Grand Nats. I do also agree that it only seems fair that Grand Nats should move from year to year or at least be held in Texas as well as Indy. I do not agree however that Texas bands would "dominate" the Grand Nats. We (Indiana) have our fair share of very good bands, and don't forget other bands across the US that are always near the top i.e. Broken Arrow, PCEP, Marian Catholic. I do like the competition among what I consider the two best band states Texas and Indiana and it will be another interesting competition in a couple weeks at Indy. Good luck to all Texas bands, but GO AVON!