Marching ‘Canes Now Marching in Valdosta
Tristan Harper and James Sampson, graduates from the Jasper County High School class of 2014, are now at Valdosta State University.
These two gentlemen are focused, studying hard and staying active on campus. Since learning their basic skills in the marching Hurricanes, Tristan and James are now members in the elite Valdosta State Blazin’ Brigade Marching Band. Mr. Harper is playing on one of the eight tubas and Mr. Sampson is on the fourth out of five bass drums.
The Blazin’ Brigade has had a very busy season so far, participating and playing for the local community, volunteering to play for a high school without a band, and showcasing as the exhibition band for high school (marching band) competitions. The band first performed as the exhibition band in their stadium for the Southern Open Band Competition on September 20, then in weeks following in Thompson, and onto Gainesville, both on October 4.
VSU Band Director Eric Bradshaw stated “Being a member of the VSU Blazin’ Brigade provides many wonderful opportunities for new students. The band is one of the largest and most visible student organizations on campus through our performances at football games, homecoming activities, and other regional events.
“It is a great way for new students/friends as they start their college career. We are very pleased to have James and Tristan as members of the Blazin’ Brigade. I hope they will represent the beginning of many more students from Jasper County High School.”
Mr. Sampson said.
“It truly is an honor being in a university marching band and drum line. It trains us how to have a balanced life and how to best utilize your time management. Also as you can see even though we work hard every day doing what we love, we still have fun doing it.”
Mr. Harper also stated, “We stay quite busy, but we love helping and demonstrating to the local high school how a university band performs. The Blazin’ brigade is one of most spirited organization we have on campus. This is just one of the many reasons why we love the university, the band and football season.”
Since 1983, The VSU Blazin’ Brigade has been entertaining football fans while supporting the Blazers and representing the university and the state of Georgia.
Their final home performance will be this Saturday October 25, which is also homecoming. The homecoming parade beings 11 a.m., Blazer Walk 1:30 p.m. and the game kicks off at 3 p.m. vs. Shorter University.
