By Kristen Hernandez
Davie, Florida — For the past year, student musicians at schools in Broward County trained like athletes for a championship game. Rehearsals were rigorous and the student’s schedules strict. For them, Sound Check Fest was the ultimate win, and proof that their marching band, auxiliaries, and drumlines were the best.
In April, marching bands from 16 high schools, three middle schools, and three historically black universities throughout the United States came to compete in Sound Check Fest 2024 at Nova Southeastern University in Davie. But it was the students from Broward County’s historically Black high schools, Dillard and Blanche Ely, that stole the show with routines that “blew the roof” off Rick Case Arena.
“They deserve everyone’s support,” said Ray Nelson, one of two MCs for the event. “These kids could be anywhere else, but they’re here.”
Before the event, Miramar High School’s Soldier Band held hands to pray.
“We’re here to show everybody who we are, and express our feelings through music,” said Yalina Williams, 15, of Miramar High School’s Soldier Band. “Our percussion is the best!”
“Today promises to be a phenomenal show,” said Ruthmore Exalant,15. “We’re about to show the world our patriotic pride, and our school pride. And we’re going to win.”
Each performer’s synchronized movement was sharp and precise, and displayed skill and complete trust in one another. Each effectively brought the funk.
“All the athletes, dancers and band included, are held to a very high standard,” said Xavier Gray, father of Diamond Dancer flagette, Xzaria Gray, 16. “My granddad was a coach at Dillard. For us, being an athlete at Dillard is a family tradition.”
Gray and his wife, Shardae Williams, had faith that the rigorous training their daughter endured would help the Dillard team take the title. As the main event playoffs began, waiting dancers stretched and practiced in the arena wings. Some sat on the floor either stretching or massaging their no doubt aching limbs.
When Dillard High School was introduced, the crowd’s applause grew into a steady roar. Stomping feet shook the stadium like thunder. Quietly, the Diamond Dancers streamed out from the sidelines, with band members following behind. They were one band, one body, one heartbeat.
Each dancer rocked a sexy black leotard, wore a fur coat, fedora, cool shades, sported a pimp cane and wads of fake cash. Silently, the dancers and band members took their place, each flagette stood paused in motion, waiting for their cue. When the band sparked its’ first funky chord, the dancers erupted and made it rain.
“It’s more than just having passion,” Gray said. “In our neighborhood, it’s a way of life. There is a lot of history linked to those streets when it comes to music… some great and successful athletes have come out of here. Music is different. Outside of sports, it keeps kids off the streets.”
In addition to the routines and performances, Sound Check Fest 2024 announced scholarships for students. The Sound Check Be Heard Foundation helps students achieve their music education goals, and also honors outstanding educators actively continuing their own education.
“Sound Check Fest isn’t just about the music; it’s about fostering inspiration, creating unforgettable moments, and bringing people together through the power of education and community,” said Sound Check Fest founder Sheldon McLean.
Blanche Ely’s music teacher and band director, Wisher Elias, was awarded the Elevated Scholarship to continue his studies at Florida International University. Local radio personality, Stitchez, announced a unique scholarship from GirlsMakeBeats.org that was awarded to Malika Shabazz, aka Sparkle. At just 12 years of age, Sparkle is the youngest female DJ and multi-threat recording artist who produced an official remix for Janet Jackson.
The drumline was the only competitive part of the exhibition. The winner was Faith’s Place from West Palm Beach, second place went to Palm Beach Lakes, and third to Piper High School’s drumline.
For information about future Sound Fest events, tickets, scholarship information, and some video footage, check out Sound Fest, Be Heard 2024.
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