11 Seconds of Fame
DMAE Marching Band’s ESPN Moment at Madison Square Garden
DMAE Marching Band at Madison Square Garden.
On December 16, 2017, DMAE’s Marching Band, The Pulse of Englewood, performed for the largest crowd ever: basketball fans who attended the Louisville vs. Memphis basketball game at Madison Square Garden. This performance was live on ESPN. It was an awe-inspiring moment for band members to play for such a large crowd of spectators in New York and display their talent. Spectators cheered and danced along with the band, as the Pulse of Englewood enjoyed its 11 Seconds of fame on ESPN and made the DMAE family proud.
It was exciting to play at Madison Square Garden, which is one of the iconic sports venues in the country. The band has become one of the most entertaining bands in New Jersey. — Band Director Gary Hollander
Both high school and middle school students make up the Marching Band and enjoy both the music they play and the strong sense of community the band develops. This sense of community was what made the big moment at Madison Square Garden so special.
“Going to Madison Square Garden was such a fun experience. It was awesome being able to show off the band’s talent on live TV,” senior Zenaya Forbes said.
First time band members were like tourist, looking up and around the Madison Square Garden arena. After the performance they understood the importance of practicing their song medleys because their hard work paid off in crowd response. Other students, teachers and administrators were also excited for this first-time spotlight for the band.
“It was a great opportunity to showcase the band’s talent to a larger audience,” Principal Billy Bowie said. “I can see how it gave the band a purpose and it’s a beautiful thing to share it with others,” he added.
In addition to the Pulse of Englewood, many other pep bands were at the stadium, some of which that played on a professional level. This, too, inspired students to see beyond high school band participation to the upcoming years in college. Dr. Hollander plans to keep the band busy including a performance in Ohio for the next band trip this year.
“I had so much fun at Madison Square Garden,” said junior Teresa Lebowitz. “We got to perform in a famous stadium and got on ESPN for a few seconds. I’m definitely looking forward to next year’s performance!”
