Roxbury Bands kick off their 2016 marching season with the
program’s most important event of the year, the eighth annual Roxbury Marching Band Classic on Sat., Sept. 24 at Roxbury High School. The
Classic is hosted by the Roxbury High School Marching Gaels competition band, and the Roxbury
Sound, who perform during halftime at all home football games. The Roxbury Sound’s High
Energy performance will close out the Roxbury Classic this year. The Classic is an invitational
competition of Regional High School Marching Bands from Northern and Central New Jersey.
This year’s competing schools are listed below, with the possibility the list may grow by show
time.
Gates open at 4:45 p.m., with a Competition
Step off time at 6 p.m. Ticket prices are $10; $8 senior citizens/students
with ID, and free for children four years old and younger.
Competing Marching Bands Host Bands:
– Chatham HS Roxbury Marching Gaels & Roxbury Sound
– Livingston HS
– Mt. Olive HS
– Morris Hills HS Exhibition Band
– Hillsborough HS
– Hackensack HS Roxbury Sound
– Dover HS
– West Orange HS
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.
Once again, New Jersey radio personality, Bob Williams, will lend his talents as an accomplished
announcer and DJ to be the “voice” of the Roxbury Classic. Vendor booths offering
Candy & Air Grams, baked goods and a 50/50 raffle will be available. Beverages snacks and
other edibles can be purchased from the large, well-stocked concession stand. Amenities include
ample parking with convenient handicap spaces and indoor restrooms. A detailed Rain
Contingency Plan is in place in the event of inclement weather.
The event is hosted by the Roxbury HS Band Parents Association (RHSBPA) along with the High
School Instrumental Program, led by Mr. Todd Nichols, RHS Band Director. The Marching Gaels
and Roxbury Sound are led by Marching Band Directors Mr. Greg Boccuti, and Mr. Ryan
Sweer. Proceeds benefit all Roxbury High School band ensembles. For more information about
this event and the Roxbury Instrumental Program, visit roxburybandsnj.org