The Freedom Big Red Marching Band has always been known to have great halftime shows, and this year would prove to repeat history. They really thrilled the audience with their Michael-Jackson themed performance.

In the first home game, the band made a big bang. The band, led by Mr. Keith Kovalic, along with the drum majors Senior Brittany Bionda and Junior Maddie Edder, took on the chance to fill Michael Jackson’s shoes by putting on a performance that wowed the crowd.
The band began with “Thriller,” then continued with “Billie Jean,” “Dance and Shout (Shake Your Body Down to the Ground),” “Wanna Be Startin’ Something,” “Smooth Criminal” and made a big finale with a second playing of “Thriller.”
The Drill Team faces a challenge of an outfit change halfway through the performance, and they were still able to stay perfectly in time with the music. Freshman Melissa Keith, the feature twirler, shocked the crowd with her flaming batons, while the band continued to impress by pulling off moves that Michael Jackson himself made famous.
After the quick costume change, Kali Ralston transformed into Freedom’s very own Michael Jackson. She was even able to pull off the legendary M.J. lean.
The Drill Team and majorettes weren’t the only ones with moves like M.J., though. The entire band also proved that they’re more than just talented musicians by showing off their dance moves too. With a combination of all of the aspects, the Freedom Big Red Marching Band really put all other halftime shows to shame.
The band owes much of their talent and precision on the field to Kovalic and the drum majors. While watching the performance, it was made clear that there had been a lot of preparation that went into the show.
“The band meets every white day during fourth block and sometimes during AAP to help perfect our performance. Also, we meet from 6-9 p.m. on Wednesday nights down by the football field to work on our performance. Personally, I have sat one-on-one with individuals and helped them to either march, or read a part in their music,” Bionda said.
Sophomore Haley Velemirovich talked about what it’s like to honor Michael Jackson.
“It’s great to be able to show respect and recognition for such an amazing icon in the music world. Michael Jackson was a fantastic artist and it’s cool that we are able to play some of his creations, just in marching band style,” Velemirovich said.
The show was an excellent tribute to Michael Jackson, and a show that will be talked about and set the standards for all other halftime shows.