"Pride of Niwot" 2nd annual band banquet

Niwot High School's "Pride of Niwot" Marching Band has been making tremendous strides in recent years, taking on more advanced halftime shows and attending more events and performances than before the pandemic. Band members celebrated their success at the second annual band banquet on Nov. 13.

Band directors and parents helped organize the banquet, which was filled with awards, videos, a slideshow presentation, and a catered pasta dinner. Students and staff dressed up formally for the event and students had the opportunity to sign their show shirts from the season. Show shirts are received every year at the beginning of the season and are designed to fit the theme of the halftime performance, which students wear under their uniforms or to more casual performances.

As a part of the presentation segment of the evening, one of the parents showed an overhead drone video, a first time experience for the band, to see their formations from overhead. Additionally a video presentation made by students at the Innovation Center was shown as well as a slideshow recap of the season made by Yaretzi Martinez and Sanjana Kaushik.

Recognitions was given to the two coaches who helped throughout the season, instructing the color guard and drumline. Delaney Coble (color guard) and Scott Barto (drumline) both received framed photos of themselves with their sections, signed by their students.

Every member of the band received recognition through section awards that were determined by section leaders. These included individuals who have grown significantly throughout the season, who have high energy, and tell funny stories to keep spirits high. However, the highlight award of the evening was the coveted "Golden Flip-Folder" award.

"(The Golden Flip-Folder) is both priceless and worthless," said Band Director Wade Hendricks. "It is awarded to the section who, throughout the season, shows consistent hard work and high energy both musically and in marching."

The award is a long-standing tradition for the marching band going back about 20 years. This year, the Fall 2023 winners of the Golden Flip-Folder were the flute section, led by Eleanor Long, and the clarinet section, led by Kennah Brackett.

The band director, coaching staff, leadership team, and students extended their profound gratitude for the parent volunteers who helped throughout the season transporting equipment to and from performances, and helped with the organization of the end of season banquet.