Port Chester High School’s Indoor Guard and Percussion ensembles recently concluded a dynamic and rewarding season marked by creativity, commitment, and growth. Kicking off just one week after the fall marching band ended, the season ran from late November through early April.
“It’s an incredibly intense schedule,” said Band Director Isaac Schneider, “but both groups had very successful seasons!”
The Indoor Guard’s show, “To Angels From Demons,” explored the dramatic struggle between good and evil, ending in harmony and peace. The Indoor Percussion’s show, “Threshold,” followed a journey of transformation, symbolizing courage in the face of change.
A standout moment came when Indoor Percussion placed 3rd at the Sight & Sound Competition in Shelton, Connecticut—the group’s first leaderboard finish since 2020. “It shows enormous growth,” Schneider said. “We use the phrase ‘trust the process’ often, and this result proves that it’s paying off.”
Throughout the winter season, students dedicated six hours each week to evening rehearsals and spent over seven hours rehearsing on Saturdays. On competition days, their commitment often stretched to 18-hour days. “It takes a special kind of person to work that hard for just a few performances,” said Schneider. “Their dedication and passion are truly remarkable.”
* Schneider praised the program’s student leaders:
* Guard Captains: Gabby Lopez, Dayana Medina, Arianna Lacerna
* Percussion Section Leaders: Chris Sandoval, Emily Duran, Jonathan Tenesaca, Jake Vasquez
* Graduating Seniors: Gabby Lopez, Journey Adamson, Lucia Giordano, Kevin Barrios
“These seniors were vital to the program,” he said. “Their impact will be felt for years to come.”
With momentum from this successful season, Schneider is excited for what’s next. “The community we’re building fosters a sense of belonging. The energy coming out of this season will carry us into our fall season and beyond.”
He added, “Running these two indoor ensembles takes a village, and I’m grateful to our students, staff, parents, and volunteers. Onwards to the fall!”
Date Added: 4/24/2025