A Love Letter to Marching Band – From One Thankful Parent

I never expected to fall in love with marching band. I didn’t play an instrument, couldn’t tell a sousaphone from a saxophone, and I definitely didn’t know what “Dinkles” were. But somewhere between the early morning practices, the long competition days, and the endless hours volunteering—I found something extraordinary. Marching band gave me more than just a calendar full of events. It gave me a place. A purpose. A community. Through it, I formed forever friendships with fellow band parents—people who became my travel buddies, rock painters and sideline cheerleaders. Together we laughed, worried and held hands as scores were announced. We bonded over the shared joy of watching “our” kids—whether they held an instrument, a flag, or a drumstick—transform into something greater than the sum of their parts. It pulled me into my children’s high school years in a way I never imagined possible. I got to see the world they were part of, the friends they cherished, and the directors they looked up to. I learned their language: shakos, blacks, dot books, pit, BOA. Words that once meant nothing now stir emotion in me. They are part of our story. And with every performance, as the band took the field, I felt it: pride. The kind that puts a lump in your throat and brings tears to your eyes. Because I saw the sweat, the sacrifice, the discipline, and the drive it took to create those awe-inspiring shows. I witnessed the directors push for greatness, the students rise to meet impossible challenges, and the magic that unfolded under stadium lights. Jenison Marching Band gave me the greatest gift of all—it let me be there. It gave me a front-row seat to some of the most beautiful moments of my children’s teenage years. And in doing so, it gave me memories I’ll hold forever.

To marching band, thank you. I thought I was signing up to help with the invitational, booster meetings, dying gloves, emails and this blog—but I found much more. I found a family. I found joy. And I found pride, every single time the band stepped onto that field.

To Sue, thank you for being the official “band mom” in taking care of our kids. Thank you for the COUNTLESS hours you have given and still do to this organization. Yes, you may be behind the scenes but this band would come to a grinding halt without your steady presence and organization. Love you friend.

To our directors, Dave, Seth and Linus, I want to sincerely thank you for the incredible impact you’ve had on our children’s lives. Your dedication, encouragement, and passion for music have not only developed their talent but also deepened their love for music in ways that words can hardly express. You've helped shape them into a more confident, disciplined, and inspired individual, and for that, I’m truly grateful.

To my Owen and Ian — thank you for letting Dad and me be part of your marching band journey. From early mornings to late-night competitions, every moment has been a memory we’ll treasure forever. Watching you grow, perform, and lead has filled us with so much pride. We are endlessly proud of you, we love you fiercely, and we will always be your biggest cheerleaders.

PEACE OUT JMB!  We will continue to cheer you on.

Keri Roth